Approval Standard

for
Automatic Sprinklers
for Fire Protection

Class Number 2000

February 2018

© 2018 by FM Approvals LLC. All rights reserved.

 Foreword
The FM Approvals certification mark is intended to verify that the products and services described will meet
FM Approvals’ stated conditions of performance, safety and quality useful to the ends of property conservation.
The purpose of Approval Standards is to present the criteria for FM Approval of various types of products and
services, as guidance for FM Approvals personnel, manufacturers, users and authorities having jurisdiction.

Products submitted for certification by FM Approvals shall demonstrate that they meet the intent of the
Approval Standard, and that quality control in manufacturing shall ensure a consistently uniform and reliable
product. Approval Standards strive to be performance-oriented. They are intended to facilitate technological
development.

For examining equipment, materials and services, Approval Standards:

a) must be useful to the ends of property conservation by preventing, limiting or not causing damage
under the conditions stated by the Approval listing; and

b) must be readily identifiable.

Continuance of Approval and listing depends on compliance with the Approval Agreement, satisfactory
performance in the field, on successful re-examinations of equipment, materials, and services as appropriate,
and on periodic follow-up audits of the manufacturing facility.

FM Approvals LLC reserves the right in its sole judgment to change or revise its standards, criteria, methods,
or procedures.
 Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Scope .................................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Basis for Requirements......................................................................................................... 2
1.4 Basis for Approval ................................................................................................................ 2
1.5 Basis for Continued Approval .............................................................................................. 2
1.6 Effective Date ....................................................................................................................... 3
1.7 System of Units .................................................................................................................... 3
1.8 Normative References .......................................................................................................... 3
1.9 Definitions ............................................................................................................................ 3
1.10 References ............................................................................................................................ 9
2 GENERAL INFORMATION .................................................................................................. 10
2.1 Product Information............................................................................................................ 10
2.2 Approval Application Requirements .................................................................................. 10
2.3 Requirements for Samples for Examination ....................................................................... 10
3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................... 11
3.1 Review of Documentation .................................................................................................. 11
3.2 Physical or Structural Features ........................................................................................... 11
3.3 Markings ............................................................................................................................. 12
3.4 Manufacturer’s Installation and Operation Instructions ..................................................... 15
3.5 Calibration .......................................................................................................................... 15
4 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................... 16
4.1 Examination........................................................................................................................ 16
4.2 Assembly Load/Frame Strength ......................................................................................... 16
4.3 Strength of Heat Responsive Element ................................................................................ 17
4.4 Leakage............................................................................................................................... 18
4.5 Hydrostatic Strength ........................................................................................................... 18
4.6 30-Day Leakage.................................................................................................................. 19
4.7 Water Hammer ................................................................................................................... 19
4.8 Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath) ................................................................................ 19
4.9 Air Bath .............................................................................................................................. 20
4.10 Hang-Up of Operating Parts ............................................................................................... 21
4.11 Strength of Deflector (Flow Endurance) ............................................................................ 22
4.12 Vacuum .............................................................................................................................. 22
4.13 High Ambient Temperature Exposure (90 Day Test)......................................................... 22
4.14 Thermal Shock (Glass Bulb Sprinklers Only) .................................................................... 24
4.15 Discharge Coefficient (K-Factor) ....................................................................................... 24
4.16 Moist Air ............................................................................................................................ 25
4.17 Corrosion - Salt Spray ........................................................................................................ 25
4.18 Corrosion - Stress Cracking................................................................................................ 26
4.19 Corrosion - Carbon Dioxide-Sulfur Dioxide ...................................................................... 28
4.20 Corrosion - Hydrogen Sulfide ............................................................................................ 28
4.21 Vibration ............................................................................................................................. 29
4.22 Rough Use and Abuse ........................................................................................................ 30
4.23 High Temperature Exposure............................................................................................... 31
4.24 Freezing .............................................................................................................................. 31
4.25 Minimum Operating Pressure............................................................................................. 32
 4.26 Process Residue .................................................................................................................. 32
4.27 Conductivity (C-Factor) ..................................................................................................... 32
4.28 Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI) ........................................................................... 34
4.29 Sensitivity (Recessed, Flush, and Concealed Types) ......................................................... 35
4.30 Sensitivity (Air Oven) ........................................................................................................ 37
4.31 Distribution - Standard Coverage Sprinklers...................................................................... 39
4.32 Distribution – Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 (HC-1) Sprinklers ........................ 41
4.33 Distribution - K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall
Sprinklers............................................................................................................................ 42
4.34 Impingement (Angle of Protection) .................................................................................... 43
4.35 Actual Delivered Density (ADD) - Extended Coverage Sprinklers for Protection of
Hazard Categories 1 – 3 (HC-1 through HC-3) .................................................................. 43
4.36 Actual Delivered Density (ADD) - K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinklers ................. 46
4.37 Actual Delivered Density (ADD) - K25.2 (K360) Storage Sprinklers ............................... 48
4.38 Fire - Standard Crib ............................................................................................................ 49
4.39 Fire Tests - K11.2 (K160) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers .................................. 50
4.40 Fire Tests - K14.0 (K200) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers .................................. 52
4.41 Fire Tests - K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage Sprinklers for Protection of Hazard
Categories 1 – 3 (HC-1 through HC-3) .............................................................................. 53
4.42 Fire Tests - K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall
Sprinklers............................................................................................................................ 54
4.43 Fire Tests - K16.8 (K240) Upright Storage Sprinklers....................................................... 58
4.44 Fire Tests - K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinklers ...................................................... 59
4.45 Fire Tests - (K25.2 (K360) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers) ............................... 62
4.46 Fire Tests - K25.2EC (K360EC) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers ........................ 63
Table 4.46.2 K25.2EC (K360EC) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinkler Test Scenarios ....... 65
4.47 Additional Tests.................................................................................................................. 65
5 OPERATIONS REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................ 65
5.1 Demonstrated Quality Control Program ............................................................................. 66
5.2 Surveillance Audit Program ............................................................................................... 66
5.3 Manufacturer's Responsibilities.......................................................................................... 67
5.4 Manufacturing and Production Tests .................................................................................. 67
APPENDIX A : UNITS OF MEASUREMENT ........................................................................ 68
APPENDIX B : TOLERANCES ................................................................................................ 70
APPENDIX C : TOLERANCE LIMIT CALCULATIONS .................................................... 71
APPENDIX D : FIGURES .......................................................................................................... 72
APPENDIX E : SAMPLE LISTING........................................................................................ 115
February 2018 2000

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

1.1.1 This standard states FM Approvals criteria for automatic sprinklers for fire protection service.

NOTE: K14.0 (K200) and larger standard-coverage quick-response storage sprinklers (formerly
ESFR sprinklers) are covered under FM Approval Standard 2008, while automatic sprinklers for
residential fire protection service are covered under FM Approval Standard 2030.

1.1.2 Approval criteria may include, but are not limited to, performance requirements, marking
requirements, examination of manufacturing facility(ies), audit of quality assurance procedures,
and a surveillance audit program.

1.2 Scope

1.2.1 This standard encompasses the design requirements, performance requirements, methods of test,
and marking requirements for fusible element and glass bulb sprinklers in the following product
categories and class numbers:

Table 1.2.1 Product Categories and Class Numbers

Class Sprinkler Product Category

2001 K8.0 (K115) Non-Storage
2002 K2.8 (K40) Non-Storage
2005 In-Rack
2007 K11.2 (K160) Storage (formerly Control Mode Specific Application)
2009 K11.2 (K160) Storage (formerly Control Mode Density/Area)
2012 Sidewall Non-Storage
2013 Dry Non-Storage
2015 Flush, Recessed and Concealed Non-Storage
2016 K5.6 (K80) Upright Non-Storage
2017 K5.6 (K80) Pendent Non-Storage
2022 Extended Coverage Sprinklers
2023 K14.0 (K200) Storage (formerly Control Mode Density/Area)
2024 K16.8 (K240) Storage (formerly Control Mode)
2029 K25.2 (K360) Storage (formerly Control Mode)
2033 K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall (formerly
Metal Building Sprinklers)
2036 K19.6 (K280) Storage (formerly Control Mode)
2042 Corrosion Resistant Sprinkler Assemblies
2091 Sprinkler Guards

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1.2.2 Other types of automatic sprinklers may be FM Approved if they meet the requirements and intent
of this standard. Sprinklers of unusual design may be subjected to special tests to determine their
suitability.

1.2.3 Approval Standards are intended to verify that the product described will meet stated conditions of
performance, safety and quality useful to the ends of property conservation.

1.3 Basis for Requirements

1.3.1 The requirements of this standard are based on experience, research and testing, and/or the
standards of other organizations. The advice of manufacturers, users, trade associations,
jurisdictions and/or loss control specialists was also considered.

1.3.2 The requirements of this standard reflect tests and practices used to examine characteristics of
automatic sprinklers for the purpose of obtaining Approval. Sprinklers having characteristics not
anticipated by this standard may be FM Approved if performance equal, or superior, to that
required by this Standard is demonstrated, or if the intent of the standard is met. Alternatively,
automatic sprinklers which meet all of the requirements identified in this Standard may not be FM
Approved if other conditions which adversely affect performance exist or if the intent of this
standard is not met.

1.4 Basis for Approval

Approval is based upon satisfactory evaluation of the product and the manufacturer in the following major
areas:

1.4.1 Examination and tests on production samples shall be performed to evaluate:

 the suitability of the product;
 the performance of the product as specified by the manufacturer and required by FM
Approvals; and as far as practical,
 the durability and reliability of the product.

1.4.2 A first audit shall be conducted to evaluate the manufacturer's ability to consistently produce the
product which was examined and tested as part of the Approval project. The audit shall review the
facility and in-place quality control procedures used in the manufacturing of the product.
Typically, areas of review are incoming inspection, work in progress, production testing, final
quality control, marking, calibration of equipment, shipping procedures, and document and
drawing control. These audits are repeated quarterly as part of FM Approvals’ Surveillance Audit
Program. (Refer to Section 5.2, Surveillance Audit Program.)

1.5 Basis for Continued Approval

Continued Approval is based upon:

 production or availability of the product as currently FM Approved;
 the continued use of acceptable quality assurance procedures;
 satisfactory field experience;
 compliance with the terms stipulated in the Approval report;
 satisfactory re-examination of production samples for continued conformity to requirements; and
 satisfactory Surveillance Audits conducted as part of FM Approvals’ Surveillance Audit Program.

Also, as a condition of retaining Approval, manufacturers may not change a product or service without prior
authorization by FM Approvals.

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1.6 Effective Date

The effective date of an Approval standard mandates that all products tested for Approval after the effective
date shall satisfy the requirements of that standard. Products FM Approved under a previous edition shall
comply with the new version by the effective date or else forfeit Approval.

The effective date of this Standard is one year from date of issue for compliance with all requirements.

1.7 System of Units

Units of measurement used in this Standard are United States (U.S.) customary units. These are followed by
their arithmetic equivalents in International System (SI) units, enclosed in parentheses. The first value stated
shall be regarded as the requirement. The converted equivalent value may be approximate. Appendix A lists
the selected units and conversions to SI units for measures appearing in this standard. Conversion of U.S.
customary units is in accordance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)/American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) SI 10,
“American National Standard for Metric Practice."

Two units of measurement (liters and bar), outside of, but recognized by SI, are commonly used in
international fire protection and are used in this standard.

1.8 Normative References

The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the cited edition applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.

IEEE/ASTM SI 10, American National Standard for Metric Practice

ANSI/ASME B1.20.1, Pipe Threads, General Purpose, Inch
ASTM B117-16, Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
ASTM E1, Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid-In-Glass Thermometers
ASTM E28-14, Standard Test Methods for Softening Point of Resins Derived from Pine Chemicals and
Hydrocarbons, by Ring-and-Ball Apparatus
ASTM G36-94(2013), Standard Practice for Evaluating Stress-Corrosion-Cracking Resistance of Metals and
Alloys in a Boiling Magnesium Chloride Solution
International Organization for Standardization, ISO 17025, General requirements for the competence of testing
and calibration laboratories

1.9 Definitions
For purposes of this standard, the following terms apply:

Accepted
This term refers to installations acceptable to the authority enforcing the applicable installation rules. When
the authority is FM Global, such locations are termed “FM Global Accepted.” Acceptance is based upon an
overall evaluation of the installation. Factors other than the use of FM Approved equipment impact upon the
decision to accept, or not to accept. Acceptance is not a characteristic of a product. It is installation specific.
A product accepted for one installation may not be acceptable elsewhere. (Contrast with FM Approved.)

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Actual Delivered Density (ADD)

The rate at which the water is actually deposited from operating sprinklers onto the top horizontal surface of a
burning storage array.

Amplitude
The maximum displacement of sinusoidal motion from position of rest to one-half of the total displacement.

Angle of Protection
For in-rack sprinklers, the "angle of protection" is that angle measured between the plane of the water shield
and the line drawn from its outer edge to the lowest and outermost extremity of the actuator. For a link and
lever sprinkler this would be the lowermost edge of the link or lever, measured with the link and lever
assembly rotated 90° to the frame arm plane. For a center strut or glass bulb sprinkler, if a line drawn to the
edge of the lower seat of the actuator or bulb rather than to the extremity of the actuator or bulb produces a
larger angle, then that larger angle shall be the "angle of protection" for that sprinkler. See Figure D-1 for
reference.

Assembly Load
The force which is applied to the sprinkler frame due to assembly of the operating parts plus the equivalent
force resulting from the maximum rated inlet pressure.

Coated or Plated Sprinkler

A sprinkler which has a factory applied coating or plating for corrosion protection or decorative purposes.

Concealed Sprinkler
A sprinkler in which the entire body, including the operating mechanism, is above or behind a concealing
plate, the margin of which is nearly flush to the ceiling or wall surface.

Conductivity (C-Factor)
A measure of the conductance between the sprinkler's heat responsive element and the other components of
the sprinkler, including the fitting, expressed in units of (ft/s) 1/2 or (m/s)1/2.

Corrosion Resistant
Materials having resistance to corrosion equal to or exceeding that of bronze alloy having a minimum copper
content of 80 percent.

Decorative Sprinkler
A sprinkler which is factory-painted or coated to improve its aesthetics. The coating is not considered a
corrosion-resistant barrier.

Design Load
See Element Design Load.

Discharge Coefficient (K-Factor)

The coefficient of discharge, K, as expressed in the equation:
Q
K
P1 / 2
Where Q is the flow in gallons per minute (gal/min), and P is the pressure in pounds per square inch (psi).
Expressed in SI units: Q is the flow in liters per minute (L/min) and P is the pressure in bar. The discharge
coefficient, therefore, has units of gal/min/(psi)1/2 or L/min/(bar)1/2.

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Dry-Type Sprinkler
A device consisting of a sprinkler permanently attached to an extension nipple which has a closure at the inlet
end to prevent system water from entering the nipple until the sprinkler operates.

Element Design Load

The load actually applied on the operating element (fusible element or bulb) at the maximum rated inlet
pressure.

Extended Coverage Sprinkler

A sprinkler with an intended area of coverage which exceeds the standard coverage area applicable to that
type of sprinkler. Extended coverage Hazard Category 1-3 (HC-1 through HC-3) sprinklers are non-storage
sprinklers that have an intended area of coverage between 225 and 400 sq ft (21 and 37 m2). Extended
coverage storage sprinklers have an intended area of coverage between 100 and 196 sq ft (9 and 18 m 2). The
minimum and maximum allowable spacing for extended-coverage sprinklers can be found in the applicable
occupancy-specific FM Global Data Sheet.

FM Approvals Certification Marks

Their use is mandatory on all FM Approved automatic sprinklers for fire protection. These registered marks
cannot be used except as authorized by FM Approvals via the granting of Approval to a specific product.

FM Approved
This term refers to products FM Approved by FM Approvals. Such products are listed in the Approval Guide,
an online resource of FM Approvals. All products so listed have been successfully examined by FM
Approvals, and their manufacturers have signed and returned a Master Agreement to FM Approvals. This
agreement obligates the manufacturer to allow re-examination of the product and surveillance audits at the
discretion of FM Approvals. It further requires the manufacturer not to deviate from the as-Approved
configuration of the product without review by and agreement of FM Approvals. Approval is manufacturing
site and product specific.

FM Global Standard Cartoned Expanded Plastic Commodity (Polystyrene Meat Trays)

A commodity product consisting of expanded polystyrene plastic food service trays (or meat trays) packaged
in single-wall corrugated cartons. Each carton contains 200 plastic trays arranged in four stacks of 50 trays
each. Typical trays weigh approximately 0.54 ounces (15 g) each, measure approximately 10.5 in. x 10.5 in. x
0.2 in thick. (27 cm x 27 cm x 0.5 cm) and consist of expanded foam plastic. Each carton measures 21 in. x
21 in. x 20 in. (53 cm x 53 cm x 51 cm) and weighs 8.9 lbs. (4.0 kg) when filled with the plastic trays. Each
pallet load consists of eight cartons placed in a 2 x 2 x 2 array upon a 42 in. x 42 in. x 5 in. (107 cm x 107 cm
x 13 cm) two-way, slatted deck hardwood pallet.

FM Global Standard Class 2 Commodity

A commodity product that consists of three double-wall corrugated paper cartons. The dimensions for the
inner, middle, and outer box are 40.3 in. x 40.3 in. x 37.8 in. (1.02 m x 1.02 m x 0.96 m), 41.0 in. x 41.0 in.
x 39.1 in. (1.04 m x 1.04 m x 0.99 m), and 41.8 in. x 41.8 in. x 41.5 in. (1.06 m x 1.06 m x 1.05 m),
respectively. Inside the cartons is a five-sided sheet metal liner, representing a non-combustible content. The
cartoned liner is supported on an ordinary, two-way, slatted deck, hardwood pallet, measuring 42 in. x 42 in.
x 5 in. (1.07 m x 1.07 m x 13 cm). The total combustible weight of the commodity is approximately 127.4 lb
(57.8 kg); the corrugated containerboard weighs approximately 78.0 lb (35.4 kg), and the pallet weighs
approximately 49.4 lb (22.4 kg).

FM Global Standard Uncartoned Expanded Plastic Commodity

A commodity product consisting of expanded polystyrene plastic food service trays (or meat trays) encased in
plastic sleeves to form bundles. Typical trays weigh approximately 0.42 ounces (12 g) each, measure
approximately 9.5 in. x 12.5 in. x 0.12 in. (24 cm x 32 cm x 0.3 cm) and consist of expanded foam plastic.

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Each bundle measures approximately 19.5 in. x 12 in. x 33 in. (50 cm x 30 cm x 84 cm) and contains two
stacks of trays, weighing a total of 6.5 lbs. (2.9 kg). Each pallet load consists of eight tray bundles placed in a
2 x 1 x 4 array upon a 42 in. x 42 in. x 5 in. (107 cm x 107 cm x 13 cm) two-way, slatted deck hardwood
pallet.

FM Global Standard Cartoned Unexpanded Plastic Commodity

A commodity product of cartoned Group A unexpanded plastic, consisting of rigid crystalline polystyrene
jars (empty, 16 fl. oz. size) packaged in compartmented, single wall, corrugated cartons measuring 21 in. x 21
in. x 20 in. (53 cm x 53 cm x 51 cm). Jars are arranged in five layers, 25 per layer for a total of 125. Each
pallet load consists of eight cartons, arranged in a 2x2x2 array upon a 42 in. x 42 in. x 5 in. (107 cm x 107 cm
x 13 cm) two-way, slatted deck hardwood pallet.

FM Global Standard Igniter

A standard igniter is the ignition source used for all FM Approvals full scale fire tests (see Sections 4.39 -
4.46). A standard igniter consists of either 2 or 4 half-igniters, depending on the ignition location. When
ignition is located at the intersection of the longitudinal and center transverse flue spaces of a double row rack
(i.e., centered in the main array), 4 half igniters are used. When ignition is located within the center transverse
flue space and positioned 2 ft (0.6 m) to one side of the longitudinal flue of a double row rack (i.e., offset
within the main array), 2 half igniters are used. Each half-igniter consists of a 3 in. diameter by 3 in. long (76
mm x 76 mm) cylinder of rolled cellucotton, soaked with 4 fluid ounces (118 ml) of gasoline, then sealed in a
polyethylene plastic bag. Igniters are prepared no more than 15 minutes prior to testing. They are positioned
at the base of the bottom tier pallet loads, lit with a propane torch to signal the start of the test, and the fires
are allowed to develop naturally.

Flush Sprinkler
A sprinkler in which essentially all of the body, with the exception of the heat responsive assembly, is
mounted above the lower plane of the ceiling.

Fusible Element Sprinkler

A sprinkler that opens under the influence of heat by the melting of a component.

Glass Bulb Sprinkler

A sprinkler that opens under the influence of heat by bursting of a glass bulb due to pressure resulting from
expansion of the enclosed fluid.

Hang-Up (Lodgment)
A malfunction in the operation of a sprinkler which, when operated under a typical system water pressure,
experiences the lodging of an operating part (cap, gasket, lever, etc.) on or between the frame, deflector
and/or compression screw, adversely affecting the water distribution for a period in excess of 60 seconds. A
momentary hesitation of an operating part to clear itself from temporary contact with the frame, deflector
and/or compression screw does not constitute a hang-up.

Hazard Category 1 (HC-1) (formerly Light Hazard Occupancy)

A non-storage occupancy in which the quantity and/or combustibility of contents is low and fires with
relatively low rates of heat release are expected. See FM Global Data Sheet 3-26, Fire Protection Water
Demand for Nonstorage Sprinklered Properties for examples of such occupancies.

Hazard Category 2 (HC-2) (formerly Ordinary Hazard Group 1 Occupancy)

A non-storage occupancy in which the quantity and/or combustibility of contents is moderate. See FM Global
Data Sheet 3-26, Fire Protection Water Demand for Nonstorage Sprinklered Properties for examples of such
occupancies.

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Hazard Category 3 (HC-3) (formerly Ordinary Hazard Group 2 Occupancy)

A non-storage occupancy in which the quantity and/or combustibility of contents is high. See FM Global
Data Sheet 3-26, Fire Protection Water Demand for Nonstorage Sprinklered Properties for examples of such
occupancies.

Heat Responsive Element

The component of a sprinkler assembly that, when subjected to the influence of heat, ruptures, bursts or
otherwise functions, causing water to be discharged through the sprinkler orifice.

In-Rack Sprinkler
A sprinkler intended for use in racks or beneath open gratings, which is equipped with a shield mounted
above the heat responsive element to protect it from water discharge from nearby sprinklers at higher
elevations. In-rack sprinklers are also commonly known as rack storage or intermediate level sprinklers. The
design of an in-rack sprinkler may consist of a standard spray (upright or pendent) sprinkler equipped with a
shield.

Leak Point
The pressure at which leakage of water in excess of one drop per minute occurs.

Maximum Service Pressure

The maximum rated working pressure of a sprinkler, typically 175 psi (12.1 bar).

Non-Storage Sprinkler
A sprinkler that has been categorized by FM Global as acceptable for protecting non-storage-type
occupancies and/or other occupancy hazards characterized by low to moderate heat-release rate fires as
permitted in a FM Global occupancy-specific Property Loss Prevention Data Sheet. Generally, extended
coverage sprinklers with nominal discharge coefficients less than 25.2 gal/min/(psi) 1/2 (360 L/min/(bar)1/2)
and standard coverage sprinklers with nominal discharge coefficients less than 11.2 gal/min/(psi) 1/2
(160 L/min/(bar)1/2) are categorized as non-storage sprinklers. NOTE: Storage sprinklers may also be used to
protect non-storage occupancies unless indicated otherwise in the occupancy-specific FM Global data sheet.

Operating Temperature
The temperature, in degrees Fahrenheit (°F) or Celsius (°C), at which the heat responsive element of a
sprinkler operates when subjected to a controlled rate-of-temperature-rise liquid bath.

Orientation, Best Case

When testing sprinklers for sensitivity in the FM Approvals plunge tunnel, the orientation of a sprinkler
which results in the fastest operating time, or the lowest Response Time Index (RTI). Typically, this
orientation is one in which the sprinkler waterway axis and the plane of the frame arms are both perpendicular
to the air flow and, in the case of non-symmetric elements, the heat responsive element is upstream of the
frame arms.

Orientation, Worst Case

For use in this standard, when testing sprinklers for sensitivity in the FM Approvals plunge tunnel, the worst
case orientation is a given angular offset from the orientation which results in the slowest operating time, or
the highest Response Time Index (RTI). For standard response sprinklers this angular offset is 15 degrees.
The angular offset for quick response sprinklers is 25 degrees.

Orifice
The opening in a sprinkler body through which the water is discharged.

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Pendent Sprinkler
A sprinkler designed such that the water exiting the orifice is directed downward against the deflector.

Quick Response Sprinkler

A sprinkler having a Response Time Index (RTI) and Conductivity factor (C) combination which fall into the
indicated area on the graph in Figure D-2. Generally, this is a sprinkler having an RTI equal to or less than
90 (ft·s)1/2 [50 (m·s)1/2] and a C-factor equal to or less than 1.81 (ft/s)1/2 [1.0 (m/s)1/2], when the sprinkler is
tested in the best case orientation. For recessed, flush and concealed sprinklers, the criteria outlined in Section
4.29 shall be met, as appropriate.

Recessed Sprinkler
A sprinkler in which part or most of the body of the sprinkler, other than the part which connects to the
piping, is mounted within a recessed housing with the plane of the orifice above the plane of the ceiling, or
behind the plane of the wall on which the sprinkler is mounted.

Response Time Index (RTI)

A measure of sprinkler sensitivity expressed as RTI = τ (u)1/2 where τ is the time constant of the heat
responsive element in units of seconds, and u is the gas velocity expressed in feet per second (or meters per
second). The quantity τ relates the properties of the heat responsive element and the heated gas flow. RTI can
be used to predict the response of a sprinkler in fire environments defined in terms of gas temperature and
velocity versus time. RTI is expressed in units of (ft·s) 1/2 or (m·s)1/2.

Service Pressure
The working hydrostatic pressure of a sprinkler system.

Sidewall Sprinkler
A sprinkler intended for installation near a wall and ceiling interface and designed to discharge water outward
and onto adjacent walls. Sidewall sprinklers may be designed such that the orifice is oriented in either the
horizontal or vertical plane.

Standard Response Sprinkler

A sprinkler having a Response Time Index (RTI) and C-factor combination which fall into the indicated area
on the graph in Figure D-2. Generally, this is a sprinkler having an RTI between 145 and 635 (ft·s)1/2 [80 and
350 (m·s)1/2] and a C-factor equal to or less than 3.62 (ft/s) 1/2 [2.0 (m/s)1/2], when the sprinkler is tested in the
best case orientation. Recessed, flush and concealed sprinklers shall meet the criteria outlined in Sections 4.28
[Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI)] or 4.29 [Sensitivity (Recessed, Flush, and Concealed Types)], as
appropriate.

Standard Sidewall Sprinkler

A non-storage sidewall (horizontal or vertical) sprinkler having a nominal discharge coefficient of 5.6 or 8.0
gal/min/(psi)1/2. Extended coverage sprinklers are excluded from the standard sidewall sprinkler category.

Standard Spray Sprinkler

An upright or pendent non-storage sprinkler having a nominal discharge coefficient of 2.8, 5.6 or 8.0
gal/min/(psi)1/2 (40, 80 or 115 L/min/(bar)1/2). An upright or pendent storage sprinkler having a nominal
discharge coefficient of 11.2, 14.0, or 16.8 gal/min/(psi)1/2 (160, 200 or 240 L/min/(bar)1/2). Extended
coverage sprinklers are excluded from the standard spray sprinkler category.

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Storage Sprinkler
A sprinkler that has been categorized by FM Global as acceptable for protecting storage-type occupancies
and/or any other occupancy hazards characterized by high heat-release rate fires as permitted in an
occupancy-specific FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheet. Generally, extended coverage sprinklers
with nominal discharge coefficients greater than or equal to 25.2 gal/min/(psi)1/2 (360 L/min/(bar)1/2) and
standard coverage sprinklers with nominal discharge coefficients greater than or equal to 11.2 gal/min/(psi) 1/2
(160 L/min/(bar)1/2) are categorized as storage sprinklers. In-rack sprinklers are also classified as storage
sprinklers since they are used almost exclusively in storage racks.

Strutting
Partial fracture of a glass bulb or partial rupture of a fusible element which does not result in sprinkler
operation.

Upright Sprinkler
A sprinkler designed such that the water exiting the orifice is directed upward against the deflector.

Weep Point
The pressure at which any visible leakage of water is detected.

1.10 References
1. Heskestad, G. and Smith, H. F. Investigation of a New Sprinkler Sensitivity Approval Test: The
Plunge Tunnel, Factory Mutual Research Corporation, FMRC Serial Number 22485, December
1976.
2. Heskestad, G. and Smith, H. F., Plunge Test for Determination of Sprinkler Sensitivity, Factory
Mutual Research Corporation, FMRC Job Identifier (J. I.) 3A1E2.RR, December 1980.
3. Heskestad, G. and Bill, R. G. Jr., Conduction Heat Loss Effects on Thermal Response of
Automatic Sprinklers, Factory Mutual Research Corporation, J. I. 0N0J5.RU, and J. I. 0N1J6.RU,
September 1987.
4. Heskestad, G and Bill, R. G. Jr., Plunge Test Procedures for Recessed, Flush and Concealed
Sprinklers, Factory Mutual Research Corporation, J. I.0Y0J1.RA, February 1995.
5. Bill, R. G. Jr., and Hill, E. E., Extended Coverage Sprinklers in Light Hazard Occupancies,
Factory Mutual Research Corporation, J. I. 0W0E5.RA, September 1993.
6. Khan, M. M., Chaffee, J. L., and Alpert, R. L., Determination of Operating Temperatures of Glass
Bulb Sprinklers Using a Thermal Liquid Bath, Project Identifier 0003002215, August 2000.

FM Approvals 9
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2 GENERAL INFORMATION
2.1 Product Information

An automatic sprinkler is a thermo-sensitive device designed to react at a predetermined temperature by

releasing a stream of water and distributing it with a specified pattern and flow rate over a designated area
when installed on the appropriate sprinkler piping.

In order to meet the intent of this standard, sprinklers shall be examined on a model-by-model, type-by-type,
manufacturer-by-manufacturer, and plant-by-plant basis. This is predicated on the basis that the
manufacturing of sprinklers requires sufficient skill in its execution that identical designs, fabricated in
identical materials by different manufacturers or, even by different plants of the same manufacturer, have
been seen to perform differently in testing. Sample sprinklers, selected in conformance to this criterion, shall
satisfy all of the requirements of this standard.

2.2 Approval Application Requirements

To apply for an Approval examination the manufacturer, or its authorized representative, should submit a
request to [email protected].

The manufacturer shall provide the following preliminary information with any request for Approval
consideration:

 A complete list of all models, types, sizes, and options for the products or services being
submitted for Approval consideration;
 A complete set of manufacturing drawings, general assembly drawings, materials list(s), assembly
load calculations, anticipated marking format, brochures, sales literature, specification sheets,
installation, operation and maintenance procedures, and;
 the number and location of manufacturing facilities.

All documents shall identify the manufacturer's name, document number or other form of reference, title,
date of last revision, and revision level. All documents shall be provided with English translation.

2.3 Requirements for Samples for Examination

2.3.1 Following authorization of an Approval examination, the manufacturer shall submit samples for
examination and testing based on the following:
 Sample requirements to be determined by FM Approvals following review of the preliminary
information.

 Requirements for samples may vary depending on design features, results of prior or similar
testing, and results of any foregoing tests.

 The manufacturer shall submit samples representative of production. Any decision to use data
generated using prototypes is at the discretion of FM Approvals.

 The manufacturer shall provide any special test fixtures, such as those which may be required to
evaluate the strength of heat responsive elements, requested by FM Approvals to evaluate the
sprinklers.

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3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Review of Documentation

3.1.1 During the initial investigation and prior to physical testing, the manufacturer's specifications and
details shall be reviewed to assess the ease and practicality of installation and use. The Approval
investigation shall define the limits of the Approval.

3.2 Physical or Structural Features

3.2.1 All materials used in automatic sprinklers shall be suitable for the intended application. Sprinkler parts
exposed to water shall be constructed of corrosion resistant materials. When unusual materials are
used, special tests, beyond those specified in this standard, may be necessary to verify their suitability.
3.2.2 Stampings shall show no cracking or splitting and be free of burrs.
3.2.3 Deflectors of sprinklers shall be securely attached.
3.2.4 Sprinklers shall be designed and manufactured such that adjustment of the assembly load or
replacement of operating parts shall not be possible without visible permanent damage to the device.
3.2.5 All connections shall be suitable for use with fittings having tapered pipe threads which conform to a
national or internationally recognized standard. Sprinklers which are to be sold in the United States
shall be threaded to suit fittings manufactured in accordance with ANSI/ASME B1.20.1, Standard for
Pipe Threads, per Table 3.2.5.
Table 3.2.5. Threaded Connections

Nominal K-Factor U.S. Nominal

gal/min/(psi)1/2 Thread Size, in.
2.8 1/2 or 3/4
5.6 1/2 or 3/4
8.0 1/2 or 3/4
11.2 1/2 or 3/4
14.0 3/4
16.8 3/4
19.6 1
25.2 1

3.2.6 Connections incorporating thread sizes larger than those stated in Section 3.2.5 are permitted for
special purpose sprinklers such as dry, flush and adjustable types.
3.2.7 Sprinklers having water passageways with cross-sectional dimensions less than 3/8 in. (9.5 mm) may
necessitate the use of individual or system strainers per appropriate installation standards. At the sole
discretion of FM Approvals, sprinklers incorporating such passages shall require a statement in various
publications (i.e. manufacturer's literature, Approval Reports, Approval Guides, etc.) referring to the
size of the openings and indicating their need for use with appropriate strainers.
3.2.8 A special wrench, facilitating installation, shall be available from the manufacturer and provided to
FM Approvals for evaluation. If installation using a common wrench is permitted by the manufacturer,
such wrench shall not easily damage the sprinkler. If a common wrench is to be used for installation,
the possibility of wrench slippage exists with possible subsequent damage to the sprinkler and the
possibility of hidden damage so as to render the sprinkler inoperative. For this reason, sprinklers
permitted by the manufacturer to be installed with a common wrench shall meet the following
requirement: the minimum length of the wrench flats shall be equal to the distance between the flats
of the sprinkler.

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February 2018 2000

3.2.9 All operating parts shall have ample clearance with near zero possibility of binding or wedging. An
analysis of the design drawings may be conducted to evaluate the worst combination of tolerances in
parts so as to assess the possibility of such malfunction.
3.2.10 Plated or coated sprinklers shall be subjected to additional evaluation and testing, beyond that specified
in this standard, to verify the integrity of their mechanical and operational properties and marking
clarity. Factory plating or coating of sprinklers shall not change the mechanical or operational
properties of the sprinkler beyond acceptable limits stated in this standard.
3.2.11 Finishes such as plating, decorative painting, or coating shall not be applied to sprinklers by anyone
other than the sprinkler manufacturer, or vendor, at the time of manufacture. Examination of sprinklers
with such finishes or coatings is required. Such sprinklers shall meet all requirements for their
respective class(es) of sprinkler(s).
3.2.12 Ornamental sprinklers such as concealed types may have factory-painted cover plates, if the painted
plates have been tested as part of the sprinkler evaluation.
3.2.13 Inlet protrusion into the fitting shall not adversely affect the flow of water through the fitting.
3.2.14 Approval of specific sprinkler types is restricted according to maximum nominal operating
temperature rating as follows:
Table 3.2.14. Maximum Nominal Temperature Rating by Sprinkler Type

Maximum Nominal
Sprinkler Type Temperature Rating
°F (°C)
Standard Sidewall (Horizontal and Vertical) 300 (149)
Flush, Recessed and Concealed (Standard and Quick Response) 225 (107)
Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 (Flush, Recessed and Concealed Types) 165 (74)
Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 (Other Types) 175 (79)

3.2.15 An open (operated) sprinkler that is identical in design and construction to an FM Approved automatic
sprinkler, less its operating components, is considered to be FM Approved.

3.3 Markings

3.3.1 All sprinklers shall be marked in accordance with one of the two marking schemes described in
3.3.1.1 and 3.3.1.2. The manufacturer may use either one or both of the schemes and shall notify
FM Approvals prior to making any marking changes on the sprinklers.

3.3.1.1 The following marking scheme is intended to meet the National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA) marking requirements adopted in 1999 and effective January 1, 2001.

Sprinklers shall be permanently marked with a one- or two-character manufacturer symbol,

followed by three or four numbers. This marking, or sprinkler identification number (SIN)
shall uniquely identify the sprinkler based upon the following:

 Orifice size or shape

 Deflector type or orientation
 Pressure rating
 Thermal sensitivity (i.e. response classification)

The manufacturer shall be assigned the one- or two-character manufacturer symbol by

contacting the International Fire Sprinkler Association (http://www.firesprinkler.global).

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The manufacturer shall not place this identification mark on any other product.

In addition to the SIN, the following shall be displayed on a non-operating part of the
sprinkler:

 Nominal temperature rating (in °F or °C at a minimum);

 Year of manufacture (Note: sprinklers manufactured in the first 6 months or last 3
months of a calendar year may be marked with the previous or following year
respectively, as the year of manufacture);
 The FM Approvals Certification Marks.

Optionally, the following additional information may be displayed on a non-operating part

of the sprinkler:

 Manufacturer’s name or identifying symbol (logo);

 Model designation (see Section 3.3.2 below);
 Nominal K-factor per Table 4.15.1 (in English units: gal/min/(psi)1/2);
 The word "PENDENT" (or the letters "SSP"), the word "UPRIGHT" (or the letters
"SSU"), or other designation to indicate type or orientation, as appropriate;

3.3.1.2 In lieu of the marking requirements of Section 3.3.1.1, sprinklers shall be permanently
marked on a non-operating component with the following:

 Manufacturer's name or identifying symbol (logo);

 Model designation (see Section 3.3.2 below);
 Nominal K-factor per Table 4.15.1 (in U.S. customary units: gal/min/(psi)1/2);
 The word "PENDENT" (or the letters "SSP" or “SP”), the word "UPRIGHT"(or the
letters "SSU" or “SU”), or other designation to indicate type or orientation, as
appropriate;
 Nominal temperature rating (in oF or °C at a minimum);
 Year of manufacture (Note: sprinklers manufactured in the first 6 months or last 3
months of a calendar year may be marked with the previous or following year
respectively, as the year of manufacture);
 Quick response sprinklers shall be marked with the words “Quick Response” or the
initials “QR”;
 The FM Approvals Certification Marks.

3.3.2 Regardless of the marking scheme utilized, the sprinkler identification number (SIN), model
designation, and/or type identification shall correspond with the manufacturer's catalog
designation and shall uniquely identify the sprinkler as FM Approved. The manufacturer shall not
place this identification mark on any other product.

3.3.3 For fusible type sprinklers, the operating temperature, or the temperature rating color code, as
defined in Table 3.3.5, shall appear on a visible area of the fusible element or an associated
operating component.

3.3.4 If a manufacturer produces sprinklers with the same model designation at more than one facility,
each sprinkler shall bear a distinctive marking on a non-operating part to identify it as the product
of a particular location.

3.3.5 All sprinklers, with the exception of glass bulb type sprinklers, shall be color coded in accordance
with Table 3.3.5. Paint of the correct color shall be applied to at least 50 percent of each frame arm
surface. This application of paint shall be visible on the sprinkler from all directions. The color
identification for coated, plated and recessed sprinklers may be a dot on the top of the deflector,

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the color of the coating material or colored frame area. This dot shall be visible from a distance of
3 feet (0.9 m).

Table 3.3.5. Temperature Ratings, Classifications, and Color Code

Nominal Temperature1 Maximum Ambient Temperature
Rating Range at Sprinkler Level Temperature Sprinkler Frame
°F (°C) °F (°C) Classification Color Code
135 to 170 (57 to 77) 100 (38) Ordinary None or Black
175 to 225 (79 to 107) 150 (66) Intermediate White
250 to 300 (121 to 149) 225 (107) High Blue
325 to 375 (163 to 191) 300 (149) Extra High Red
400 to 475 (204 to 246) 375 (191) Very Extra High Green
500 to 575 (260 to 302) 475 (246) Ultra High Orange
650 (343) 625 (329) Ultra High Orange/Tag
Note: 1 FM Approved sprinklers shall have a specific temperature rating within the range.

3.3.6 Bulb type sprinklers shall comply with the bulb color designation shown in Table 3.3.6. The bulb
fluid color shall be considered a suitable method of temperature identification in addition to
permanent marking elsewhere on the sprinkler.

Table 3.3.6. Temperature Ratings and Bulb Color Codes

Nominal Temperature Rating
Bulb Color Code
°F (°C)
135 (57) Orange
155 (68) Red
175 (79) Yellow
200, 225 (93, 107) Green
250, 286 (121, 141) Blue
325, 360 (162, 182) Mauve
400 to 650 (204 to 343) Black

3.3.7 For all concealed sprinklers, the cover plate shall be marked with the words "Do Not Paint" in
characters at least 1/8 in. (3.2 mm) in height.

3.3.8 Horizontal sidewall sprinklers shall include the word "Top" on the deflector to indicate
orientation.

3.3.9 Vertical sidewall sprinklers shall bear an arrow indicating the direction of flow and the word
“flow”.

3.3.10 Factory plated sprinklers shall be identified as such with a distinctive marking so as to distinguish
the product from unauthorized field plating.

3.3.11 For factory decorative-painted (coated) sprinklers, some portion of the sprinkler shall remain
unpainted and readily visible from a minimum of 1 foot (0.3 m). This would allow a means to
determine if the sprinkler were repainted in the field. Field painting is prohibited.

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3.3.12 For bulb-type sprinklers, the manufacturer shall place a distinctive mark on a non-operating part of
the sprinkler to denote the bulb manufacturer if more than one source is used in a given design.

3.3.13 With the exception of wax-coated sprinklers, all markings shall be permanent and visible from a
distance of 3 feet (0.9 m). The markings shall remain visible through any factory-applied plating
or decorative coating.

3.4 Manufacturer’s Installation and Operation Instructions

The manufacturer shall provide the user with adequate instructions for proper installation with each shipment.
Sprinklers shall be installed and maintained in accordance with applicable installation rules. Field modification,
such as replacing a component on a sprinkler, plating, or painting, is prohibited.

3.5 Calibration

All equipment used to verify the test parameters shall be calibrated within an interval determined on the basis
of stability, purpose, and usage of the equipment. A copy of the calibration certificate for each piece of test
equipment is required for FM Approvals records, indicating that the calibration was performed against working
standards whose calibration is certified as traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology
(NIST) or to other acceptable reference standards and certified by a ISO 17025 calibration laboratory. The test
equipment must be clearly identified by label or sticker showing the last date of the calibration and the next due
date. A copy of the service accreditation certificate as an ISO 17025, "General Requirements for the
Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories", calibration laboratory is required for FM Approvals
records.

The calibration of recently purchased new equipment is also required. Documentation indicating either the date
of purchase or date of shipment, equipment description, model and serial number is required for identification.
The period from the time the equipment was put into service to the date of testing must be within an interval
that does not require the equipment to be calibrated as determined on the basis of the parameters mentioned
above.

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4 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
Test Pressures

All test pressures are based on the maximum rated working pressure of 175 psi (12.1 bar). Other pressures will
be considered at the sole discretion of FM Approvals.

4.1 Examination

4.1.1 Requirement
The sprinklers shall conform to the manufacturer’s drawings and specifications and to FM
Approvals requirements.

4.1.2 Test/Verification
A sample or samples shall be examined and compared to drawings and specifications. It shall be
verified that the sample conforms to the physical and structural requirements described in Section
3, General Requirements.

4.2 Assembly Load/Frame Strength

4.2.1 Requirement
The frame of a sprinkler shall be capable of withstanding twice the assembly load without
sustaining permanent elongation or deformation in excess of 0.2 percent of the distance between
the load bearing parts of the sprinkler.

4.2.2 Tests/Verification
A. Fifteen previously untested sprinklers shall be individually tested to determine the assembly load.
With the threaded portion of the sprinkler restrained from movement, the heat responsive element
of the test sample shall be removed and the negative axial deflection of the frame, resulting from
the release of the assembly shall be recorded. Deflection measurements shall be made using an
indicator capable of reading to a precision of 0.00001 in. (0.00025 mm). A force necessary to
return the deflection of the frame to the original zero position shall then be applied and the value
of the force recorded.
B. Each of these sprinklers shall then be subjected momentarily (for 1 to 5 seconds) to twice the sum
of the force recorded in Section 4.2.2A, plus the force applied to the sprinkler as a result of the
maximum rated working pressure [typically 175 psi (12.1 bar)]. The amount of permanent set after
the load application shall be determined. The percentage of permanent frame elongation shall be
calculated using the minimum distance between the load bearing points, determined to the nearest
0.001 in. (0.03 mm), from the plane of the sprinkler orifice to the center of the compression
bearing surface of the sprinkler.
C. Alternate Assembly Load Test Method for Sprinklers with a Belleville Washer Type Seal:
The following test method may be employed for determining the assembly load of sprinklers
incorporating a Belleville washer type seal (i.e., coned-disc spring or cupped spring washer) as it
has been determined to provide results equivalent to or more accurate than the method described
in Section 4.2.2A.
Mount an assembled sprinkler into a solid fixture and mark the pipcap/seat, spring, and frame for
orientation purposes. This enables the components to be reassembled in their original positions.
Set a dial indicator on the bottom of the sprinkler, through the waterway, and in contact with the
bottom of the pipcap/seat. Zero the indicator gage and operate the heat responsive element using
pliers or by another suitable mechanical means. Remove the compression screw from the
sprinkler, if necessary, then align and re-assemble the operating components (spring and
pipcap/seat) in the waterway. Set a hydraulic ram with a load cell (or other suitable means of load

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application and measurement) on top of the sprinkler and employ a suitable fixture such that load
can be applied to the pipcap/seat. Apply a load to the pipcap/seat and compress the spring until the
dial indicator returns to zero. Wait ten minutes, then record the reported load as the assembly load.
NOTE: If the alternate method is used to determine assembly load, a separate frame strength test
must still be performed as described in Section 4.2.2B.

4.3 Strength of Heat Responsive Element

4.3.1 Requirement
A. A heat responsive element of the fusible type shall be (1) capable of sustaining a load 15 times its
maximum design load for a period of 100 hours or (2) demonstrate the ability to sustain the
maximum element design load when tested in accordance with Section 4.3.2A2.
B. For a heat responsive element of the glass bulb type, the lower tolerance limit of bulb strength
shall be greater than two times the upper tolerance limit of sprinkler assembly load based on
calculations with a degree of confidence of 0.99 (99 percent). Calculations shall be based on the
Normal or Gaussian Distribution except where another distribution can be shown to be more
applicable due to manufacturing or design factors. The method for calculating the upper and lower
tolerance limits is shown in Appendix C.

4.3.2 Tests/Verification
A. Heat Responsive Element of the Fusible Type

1. Fifteen samples shall be loaded with a weight representing the equivalent of 15 times the
design load. All samples must remain undamaged after sustaining this load for a period of 100
hours.
2. Fusible type heat responsive elements which cannot pass the test described in 4.3.2A1 shall
meet the following requirements. Sample fusible type heat-responsive elements shall be
subjected to loads in excess of the design load which will produce failure both within and
after 1000 hours. The test samples shall be maintained at an environmental temperature of 70
± 5 °F (21 ± 2.6°C). At least 15 samples shall be loaded to various degrees in order to
establish a basis of time to failure as a function of load. Failures which are not related to the
solder bond shall be disregarded. A least squares, full logarithmic regression curve shall be
plotted from which both the load to failure at 1 hour (Lo) and the load to failure at 1000 hours
(Lm) shall be determined. The actual maximum design load on the fusible element, as
determined using the upper tolerance limit of assembly load from Section 4.2.2A, shall be less
than or equal to the maximum permitted design load (Ld) determined in the expression:

L2m
Ld  1.02
Lo

Where:

Ld = Maximum permitted design load for the heat responsive element

Lm = Load resulting in failure at 1000 hours
Lo = Load resulting at failure in 1 hour

3. Where physical limitations of the fusible element prevent the application of the loads
described in Section 4.2.2A, alternate methods of determining the adequacy of the design
shall be developed to ensure that such elements should not fail during the anticipated life
span.

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B. Heat Responsive Element of the Bulb Type

The results of the assembly load test, Section 4.2.2A, shall form the basis for calculating the upper
tolerance limit of the sprinkler assembly load. The lower tolerance limit for bulb strength shall be
determined using the results obtained from subjecting a minimum of 25 sample bulbs to an
increasing load until the bulbs fail. Each test shall be conducted with the bulb mounted in
hardened steel inserts with seating surfaces having dimensions which conform to the actual
mating components of the sprinkler. The inserts shall have a hardness within the range Rockwell
C 38-50 (see Figure D-3). They shall be provided by the manufacturer each time the test is
specified. The load shall be applied at a rate of compression not exceeding 0.05 in./min (1.27
mm/min). The results obtained from the two sets of data shall be utilized for the tolerance limit
calculations as described in Appendix C, Tolerance Limit Calculations.

4.4 Leakage

4.4.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall not weep or leak at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar) hydrostatic pressure and shall not
leak at 30 psi (2.1 bar) pneumatic pressure. Additionally, dry type sprinklers shall not weep or leak
at the junction of the inlet and the extension nipple when that connection is subjected to external
pneumatic pressures from 0 to 15 psi (0 to 1.0 bar).

4.4.2 Tests/Verification
A. Hydrostatic Leakage - Ten previously untested sprinklers shall be individually subjected to a
slowly rising hydrostatic pressure. The pressure shall be increased from 0 to 500 psi (0 to 34.5
bar), at a rate not to exceed 300 psi (20.7 bar) per second, and maintained at 500 psi (34.5 bar) for
1 minute.
B. Pneumatic Leakage - Four previously untested sprinklers shall be individually conditioned at -20 ±
10°F (-29 ± 6 °C) for 24 hours. Each sample shall be pneumatically pressurized to 30 ± 2 psi (2.1
± 0.1 bar) and immersed in glycol liquid conditioned to -20 ± 10°F (-29 ± 6 °C), and observed for
5 minutes.
C. Pneumatic Leakage – Dry Sprinkler Inlet (Dry Sprinklers Only) - 5 previously untested sprinklers
shall be individually installed on a test apparatus which isolates the junction of the inlet and
extension nipple (see Figure D-4). Each sample shall be immersed in water, pneumatically
pressurized to 15 ± 2 psi (1.0 ± 0.1bar), and observed for 5 minutes for evidence of leakage.

4.5 Hydrostatic Strength

4.5.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall be capable of withstanding, without rupture, an internal hydrostatic pressure of up
to 700 psi (48.3 bar) for a period of 1 minute.

4.5.2 Tests/Verification
If all samples comply with the requirements of Section 4.4.2A, each sample shall be further
subjected to a gradually increasing hydrostatic pressure to 700 psi (48.3 bar) at a rate not to exceed
300 psi (20.7 bar) per second. The test pressure shall be maintained for 1 minute. If leakage at the
orifice prevents testing at 700 psi (48.2 bar), the maximum attainable test pressure shall be
maintained for 1 minute. Leakage at the orifice above a hydrostatic pressure of 500 psi (34.4 bar)
shall be deemed acceptable.

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4.6 30-Day Leakage

4.6.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall not weep or leak when subjected to an internal hydrostatic pressure of 300 psi
(20.7 bar) for a continuous period of 30 days. Following this test period, the samples shall not
weep or leak at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar) when tested in accordance with Section 4.4.2A
(Hydrostatic Leakage). The samples shall also show no evidence of distortion or physical damage.

4.6.2 Tests/Verification
Five previously untested samples shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no weep
or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). The samples shall then be installed on a water-filled
test apparatus which is to be maintained at ambient temperature and at a constant pressure of 300
psi (20.7 bar) for 30 days. The samples shall be examined weekly during the test period for
evidence of leakage at the seal.
Following this test, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.

4.7 Water Hammer

4.7.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall be capable of withstanding 100,000 applications of a pressure surge from
approximately 50 to 500 psi (3.4 to 34.5 bar) without leakage, distortion, or physical damage.
Following satisfactory completion of this test, the samples shall not weep or leak at, or below, 500
psi (34.5 bar) when tested in accordance with Section 4.4.2A (Hydrostatic Leakage). The samples
shall also show no evidence of distortion or physical damage. Subsequently, the samples shall
exhibit positive operation and release of all operating parts at the minimum operating pressure
stated in Table 4.25.1 when tested in accordance with Section 4.25.2 (Minimum Operating
Pressure).

4.7.2 Tests/Verification
Five previously untested samples shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no weep
or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). They shall then be installed on a water-filled
manifold and subjected to changes in pressure from approximately 50 +0/-50 to 500 +0/-50 psi
(3.4 +0/-3.4 to 34.5 + 0/-3.4 bar) for 100,000 +1,000/-0 cycles. The cycle period shall be between
1 and 4 seconds. Observations shall be made for evidence of leakage at least twice a day during
the test period.
Following this test, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.

4.8 Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath)

4.8.1 Requirement
Sprinklers and cover plates having nominal temperature ratings less than 400°F (204°C) shall have
an actual operating temperature within ± 3.5 percent of the marked nominal temperature rating,
when immersed in a constant rate-of-temperature-rise liquid bath. Sprinklers and cover plates with
nominal temperature ratings of 400°F (204°C) or greater shall meet the requirements stated above,
or shall have an actual operating temperature within + 107 percent of the marked nominal
temperature rating (i.e. -0/+7 percent).

4.8.2 Tests/Verification
Ten previously untested sprinklers shall be immersed in a vessel containing a liquid as specified in
Table 4.8.2.

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Table 4.8.2. Liquid Bath Conditions

Nominal Temperature Maximum Rate of
Rating of Sprinkler Bath Liquid Temperature Rise
°F (°C) °F/min (°C/min)
0 - 175 (0 - 79) Water 0.8 (0.4)
176 - 360 (80 - 182) Glycerin 0.5 (0.3)
361 + (183 +) Vegetable Oil 0.5 (0.3)

The sprinklers shall be placed on a grate or rack suspended above the bottom of the vessel. The
liquid level shall not exceed 1 in. (25.4 mm) above the top of the sprinkler, and whenever possible,
shall not exceed 1.5 in. (38.1 mm) above the top of the heat responsive element. The vessel shall
be provided with a source for heating the liquid, a means to agitate the liquid, and a device to
measure the temperature of the liquid (see Figure D-5 for a typical test set-up). The liquid shall be
agitated at a constant rate of 200 ±10 rpm via a paddle measuring 4 in. (100 mm) long by 0.8 in.
(20 mm) high. The device used to measure the temperature of the liquid shall be calibrated in
accordance with the ASTM E1, Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid-In-Glass Thermometers,
or the equivalent. It shall be immersed such that readings are taken at the same depth as the
sprinkler heat responsive element.
The temperature of the bath shall be raised until the liquid is 20 ± 2°F (11.1 ± 1.1°C) below the
nominal temperature rating of the sprinkler. The temperature rise shall then be controlled at a rate
not exceeding that specified in Table 4.8.2 until operation of all sprinklers occurs. If one or more
sprinklers fails to operate at, or below, the maximum temperature as stated in Section 4.8.1, the
rate of rise shall continue to be controlled until all the sprinklers have operated, or until the bath
reaches a temperature ten percent above the nominal temperature rating of the sprinklers, at which
point the test shall be terminated. The temperature of the liquid bath at the time of operation shall
be recorded for each sprinkler.
Partial fracture of a glass bulb or partial rupture of a fusible element which does not result in
sprinkler operation, i.e., strutting, shall necessitate an additional test (Air Bath Test, Section 4.9) in
order to verify proper operation of the sprinkler in air.

4.9 Air Bath

4.9.1 Requirement
The heat responsive element of a sprinkler shall operate properly when subjected to a constant
rate-of-temperature-rise air bath.

NOTE: the air bath test is required only if strutting is observed during a liquid bath test.

4.9.2 Tests/Verification
Fifty previously untested sprinklers shall be placed on their threaded inlets in a programmable
oven circulating air at ambient temperature. The temperature in the oven shall be steadily raised to
20 ± 2°F (11.1 ± 1.1°C) below the nominal temperature rating of the sprinklers over a 20 minute
period. Once this temperature is reached, the oven shall be maintained at constant temperature for
a period of 60 ± 5 minutes. The temperature shall then be raised at a constant rate of 1 ± 0.5°F (0.5
± 0.3°C) per minute until the temperature reaches 40 ± 5°F (22 ± 2.8°C) above the nominal
temperature rating of the sprinklers.

Partial fracture of a glass bulb or partial rupture of a fusible element, i.e., strutting, shall be
deemed a failure.

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4.10 Hang-Up of Operating Parts

4.10.1 Requirement
When tested as described below, not more than 1 percent of the samples shall exhibit a hang-up, or
lodgment, of operating parts on the non-operating components (i.e. frame, compression screw,
deflector, etc.) of the sprinkler.
For extended coverage type sprinklers, no sample may exhibit a hang-up or lodgment of operating
parts on the non-operating components.
Samples shall operate fully and completely, and shall exhibit no binding of internal components.
Upon operation, the discharge coefficient (K-factor) of all samples may be measured and shall
comply with Section 4.15, Discharge Coefficient (K-Factor).
Any non-operation caused by binding of an operating element or improper fracturing of a glass
bulb, shall be considered a hang-up. Momentary obstructions which clear in less than 60 seconds
are not considered hang-ups. Pressures other than those shown in Table 4.10.2 may be tested at the
sole discretion of FM Approvals.

4.10.2 Tests/Verification
Samples shall be selected in accordance with Table 4.10.2 and shall be individually installed in
their intended installation position, on a pipe manifold as described in Figure D-6. Each sample
shall be subjected to an inlet water pressure in accordance with Table 4.10.2, operated using a
suitable open flame heat source, and observed for complete and proper functioning. A total of 100
sprinklers shall be tested.
EXCEPTION: Dry sprinklers shall be tested at both the minimum and maximum lengths, and may
require a total sample quantity of up to 200 sprinklers. The pipe manifold of Figure D-6 shall be
modified by installing a plugged tee in place of the elbow and may be modified further to
accommodate long samples of dry sprinklers.
Five samples shall be tested at each pressure with the pipe manifold configured for double-fed
flow, and the remaining samples shall be tested with single-fed flow (see Figure D-6).
Upon activation of each sample, the discharge coefficient may be measured to verify proper and
complete operation.

Table 4.10.2. Hang-Up Test Samples

Pressure1
psi (bar) Number of Samples
7 (0.5) 10
25 (1.7) 15
50 (3.4) 15
75 (5.2) 15
100 (6.9) 15
125 (8.6) 10
150 (10.3) 10
175 (12.1) 10
Note: 1 A tolerance of ± 5 percent applies to all pressures
specified in the table.

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4.11 Strength of Deflector (Flow Endurance)

4.11.1 Requirement
The deflector as well as other non-operating components of the sprinkler, and their methods of
attachment, shall be designed and manufactured such that sprinkler operation and subsequent
water flow does not cause damage to these parts or cause their disengagement from the sprinkler.
Following test completion, there shall be no evidence of deflector distortion, damage, or
impending separation from the frame on any of the sprinklers tested. The deflector and other non-
operating components shall not be loosened.

4.11.2 Tests/Verification
Three previously untested sample sprinklers shall be individually installed in the test apparatus
detailed in Figure D-6 in their intended orientation. Water shall be introduced to the inlet of each
sprinkler at a pressure of 225 ± 10 psi (15.5 ± 0.7 bar). Each sprinkler shall then be operated using
a suitable heat source and water flow shall be adjusted to and maintained at 225 ± 10 psi (15.5 ±
0.7 bar) for a period of 15 minutes.

4.12 Vacuum

4.12.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall be designed such that when the inlet of an assembled sprinkler is subjected to a
vacuum, as might be experienced during draining of a sprinkler system, the sprinkler shall not be
damaged or leak when tested as described in 4.12.2. Following this test, each sample shall not
weep or leak at a pressure of 5 ± 0.5 psi (0.3 ± 0.03 bar) when tested in accordance with Section
4.4.2A (Hydrostatic Leakage). Additionally, each sample shall not weep or leak at a pressure at, or
below, 500 psi (34.5 bar).

4.12.2 Tests/Verification
Three previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no
weep or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). The sprinklers shall then be subjected to a
vacuum of 26 in. Hg (0.88 bar) for a period of one minute.

Following this test, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.

4.13 High Ambient Temperature Exposure (90 Day Test)

4.13.1 Requirement
A. Sprinklers shall be capable of withstanding an exposure to a high ambient temperature in
accordance with Table 4.13.1.1 and Section 4.13.2 for a period of 90 days without evidence of
weakness or failure. Following the exposure period, each sample shall not weep or leak at, or
below, 500 psi (34.5 bar) when tested in accordance with Section 4.4.2A (Hydrostatic Leakage).
Subsequently, half of the sprinklers shall be tested for conformance to the requirements for
sensitivity as described in Sections 4.28 [Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI)], 4.29
[Sensitivity (Recessed, Flush, and Concealed Types)], and 4.30 [Sensitivity (Air Oven)], as
applicable. The remaining samples shall be tested for operating temperature as described in
Section 4.8 [Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath)]. Exceptions/additions are noted as described
below.

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Table 4.13.1.1. High Ambient Temperature Exposure Test Conditions

Sprinkler Nominal Temperature Rating Nominal1 Test Temperatures
°F (°C) °F (°C)
135 - 170 (57 - 77) 100 (38)
175 - 225 (79 - 107) 150 (66)
250 - 300 (121 - 149) 225 (107)
325 - 375 (163 - 191) 300 (149)
400 - 475 (204 - 246) 365 (185)
500 - 575 (260 - 302) 465 (241)
650 (343) Evaluated on a case-by-case basis
1Tolerance
Note: on Nominal Test Temperature at stabilized condition: ± 3°F (1.7°C)

B. High ambient temperature can affect platings and coatings such as decorative (painting) or
corrosion resistant (wax, asphalt, etc...) which may ultimately impact the performance of
sprinklers. Samples having such finishes may be subjected to this test at the discretion of FM
Approvals. Following exposure, there shall be no evidence of shrinking, hardening, cracking, or
flaking of the coating or plating.
C. For sprinkler coatings which contain volatiles, such as wax coatings, the softening point
determined in accordance with ASTM E28 shall be at least 20°F (11°C) under the nominal
temperature rating of the sprinklers and not less than 20°F (11°C) above the maximum allowed
installation temperature. Sprinklers with coatings that do not meet this requirement shall be
evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The permissible softening point temperatures are summarized
in Table 4.13.1.2.

Table 4.13.1.2. Permitted Softening Points of Volatile Sprinkler Coatings

Sprinkler Nominal Minimum Softening Maximum Softening
Temperature Rating Point Temperature Point Temperature
°F (°C) °F (°C) °F (°C)
0 - 139 (0 - 59) Evaluated on a case-by-case basis
140 - 170 (60 - 77) 120 (49) 120 - 150 (49 - 65)
171 - 189 (78 - 87) Not Permitted
190 - 225 (88 - 107) 170 (77) 170 - 205 (77 - 96)
226 - 264 (108 - 129) Not Permitted
265 - 300 (130 - 149) 245 (118) 245 - 280 (118 - 138)
301 - 339 (150 - 170) Not Permitted
340 - 375 (171 - 191) 320 (160) 320 - 355 (160 - 179)
376+ (192+) Evaluated on a case-by-case basis

D. For dry-type sprinklers, samples may be tested to verify clearing of the waterway when operated
using a suitable heat source, in the prescribed orientation with the appropriate associated minimum
inlet water pressure as stated in Table 4.25.1 (Minimum Operating Pressure).
E. Concealed-type sprinklers incorporating a solder alloy or other temperature sensitive material to
attach the cover plate shall not experience separation of the cover plate during the exposure.
Following the test, sprinkler covers shall be tested for operating temperature as stated in Section
4.8 [Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath)].

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4.13.2 Tests/Verification
A. Ten previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no weep
or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). The samples shall then be placed in an
automatically controlled, air circulating constant-temperature oven and subjected to a high
ambient temperature selected in accordance with Table 4.13.1.1 for a period of 90 ± 1 days.
B. For coatings which contain volatiles, such as wax coatings, a sample of the coating shall be placed
in an open container and subjected to the maximum allowed installation temperature of the
sprinkler as stated in Table 4.13.1.2 for a period of 90 ± 1 days. Prior to and following the
exposure period, the softening point of these coating samples shall be determined using ASTM
E28, Test Method for Softening Point by Ring and Ball Apparatus, or its equivalent as determined
by FM Approvals.
Following these tests, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.
Manufacturers may submit additional samples for evaluation prior to completion of the required
test period. Results from such samples may be used to terminate the test early.

4.14 Thermal Shock (Glass Bulb Sprinklers Only)

4.14.1 Requirement
Sprinklers having frangible glass bulbs shall operate within their nominal operating temperature
range after being exposed to a series of rapid temperature changes (i.e. thermal shocks). Operation
of a sprinkler during the cycling portion of this test shall be deemed unacceptable. Following the
sequence detailed in Section 4.14.2, each sample shall meet the operating temperature
requirements specified in Section 4.8 [Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath)].
4.14.2 Tests/Verification
Five previously untested samples shall be conditioned for 5 ± 1 minutes in a liquid bath
maintained at a temperature of seven percent below their nominal rating. The bath liquid shall be
selected in accordance with Table 4.8.2.
The sprinklers shall then be removed and immediately submerged for a period of 15 to 30 seconds
into a second liquid bath maintained at 50 ± 5°F (10 ± 2.8°C). This sequence of heating and
plunging into the cold liquid bath shall be repeated three times on each sample.
Following this test, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.

4.15 Discharge Coefficient (K-Factor)

4.15.1 Requirement
The mean value of the discharge coefficient (K-factor) shall be consistent with Table 4.15.1 when
sprinklers are tested as detailed in Section 4.15.2. For each sample and pressure direction, not
more than one individual value shall fall outside of the stated range.
Table 4.15.1. K-Factor Ranges
Nominal Discharge Coefficient Nominal Discharge Coefficient Range
(gal/min/(psi)1/2) (L/min/(bar)1/2) (gal/min/(psi)1/2) (L/min/(bar)1/2)
2.8 40 2.6 - 2.9 38 - 42
5.6 80 5.3 - 5.8 76 - 84
8.0 115 7.4 - 8.2 107 - 118
11.2 160 10.7 – 11.7 154 - 168
14.0 200 13.5 - 14.5 195-209
16.8 240 16.0 - 17.6 231-254
19.6 280 18.6 - 20.6 268 - 297
25.2 360 23.9 - 26.5 344-382

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4.15.2 Tests/Verification
Four samples shall be individually tested using the test apparatus for determining K-factor shown
in Figure D-7 at increasing and decreasing pressures over the complete operating range, 25 to 175
psi (1.7 to 12.1 bar) in 10 psi (0.7 bar) increments. With the deflector and a portion of the frame
removed, if necessary, to facilitate testing, each sample shall be inserted into the test fixture and
torqued to a rotation one-half turn (180 degrees) beyond "hand tight" using an appropriate wrench.
EXCEPTION: In order to evaluate potential distortion of thin-walled waterways, sprinklers with a
nominal K-factor of 11.2 gal/min/(psi)1/2 incorporating 1/2 in. NPT threaded connections or
sprinklers with a nominal K-factor greater than 14.0 gal/min/(psi)1/2 utilizing 3/4 in. NPT threaded
connections may be tested with installation torques of both “hand tight” and “hand tight” plus one
full turn.
The K-factor shall be determined using the expression:

Q
K
P1 / 2
where Q = flow rate [gal/min (L/min)] and P = pressure [psi (bar)].
For dry (fixed length) sprinklers, tests shall be conducted on a minimum of two of the longest and
two of the shortest lengths, and may be conducted on one sample of an intermediate length.
For dry (adjustable type) sprinklers, tests shall be conducted on a minimum of two samples while
adjusted to the longest and the shortest length, and may be conducted at one intermediate position.
4.16 Moist Air
4.16.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall withstand an exposure to high temperature and humidity for a continuous period
of 90 days. Following the exposure, samples shall not weep or leak at, or below, 175 psi (12.1 bar)
when tested in accordance with Section 4.4.2A (Hydrostatic Leakage). Subsequently, the samples
shall exhibit positive operation and release of all operating parts at the minimum operating
pressure stated in Table 4.25.1 when tested in accordance with Section 4.25.2 (Minimum
Operating Pressure).

4.16.2 Tests/Verification
Five previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no
weep or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). They shall then be exposed to an atmosphere
having a relative humidity of 98 percent ± 2 percent and a temperature of 203 ± 2°F (95 ± 1.1°C)
for a period of 90 ± 1 days. If the exposure temperature nears or exceeds the nominal temperature
rating of the sprinkler, the heat responsive element shall be specially fabricated to prevent
operation during this test. The sprinklers shall be installed on a pipe manifold which contains
water in approximately 50 percent of its volume. The entire manifold, along with the sprinklers,
shall be placed in the high temperature and humidity enclosure for the duration of the test.

Following this test, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.

4.17 Corrosion - Salt Spray

4.17.1 Requirement
In order to evaluate the resistance to corrosion of the assembly, such as might be experienced by
dissimilar materials in contact over long periods of time, sprinklers, other than flush and concealed
types, shall withstand a timed exposure to a salt spray atmosphere.

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NOTE: At the manufacturer’s request, FM Approvals will test flush or concealed type sprinklers
and, if successful in this and other exposure tests, may Approve these sprinklers for use in
atmospheres subject to corrosion.
When tested as detailed in Section 4.17.2, visual evidence of severe deterioration or impending
failure of any component shall constitute failure. Following exposure, all of the samples shall be
subjected to a hydrostatic pressure of 175 psi (12.1 bar) for one minute without leakage.
Subsequently, the sprinklers shall be tested for conformance to the requirements for sensitivity as
described in Sections 4.28 [Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI)], 4.29 [Sensitivity (Recessed,
Flush, and Concealed Types)], and 4.30 [Sensitivity (Air Oven)], as applicable. At the discretion
of FM Approvals, some or all of the samples may be tested for operating temperature as described
in Section 4.8 [Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath)]. Should the deflector or other non-operating
components, or their attachment method, exhibit questionable corrosive attack, at least one sample
shall be subjected to water flow at a pressure of 175 psi (12.1 bar) for a period of one minute.
Upon completion of this test, the deflector shall not show evidence of fracture, distortion or
impending separation from the frame.

4.17.2 Tests/Verification
Eight previously untested samples shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no weep
or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar).
Each sprinkler inlet shall be filled with deionized water and sealed with a non-reactive material
(e.g., plastic cap) so as to prevent the introduction of salt fog into the waterway of the sprinkler.
When feasible, each sprinkler shall be supported in its intended installation position.
EXCEPTION: Cover plates, common to the design of concealed sprinklers, shall be tested
separately and shall be oriented such that salt fog residue and condensate cannot pool on the plate.
The samples shall be exposed to salt spray (fog) as specified by ASTM B117, Standard for Salt
Spray (Fog) Testing. The salt solution shall consist of 20 percent by weight of common salt
(sodium chloride) dissolved in deionized water.
The samples shall be exposed for a period of 10 days.
When sprinklers are intended to be classified as corrosion resistant, the samples shall be exposed
for a period of 30 days.
Following exposure to the salt fog, the samples shall be removed from the test chamber and
permitted to air dry for a two- to four-day drying period. Following this drying period, the samples
shall be subjected to the post-exposure tests detailed above.

4.18 Corrosion - Stress Cracking

4.18.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall be resistant to stress corrosion cracking, as determined through the process
described below. Following exposure, the samples shall not show evidence of cracking,
delamination, or degradation.
After exposure, the sprinklers shall not weep or leak at, or below, 175 psi (12.1 bar) when
hydrostatically tested for one minute. Subsequently, half of the samples shall exhibit positive
operation and release of all operating parts at the minimum operating pressure when tested in
accordance with Section 4.25.2 (Minimum Operating Pressure). The remaining samples shall be
subjected to a water flow at a pressure of 175 psi (12.1 bar) for a period of one minute. Upon
completion of this test, the deflector shall not show evidence of fracture, distortion or impending
separation from the frame.

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4.18.2 Tests/Verification
A. Copper Based Parts (Ammonia Test)
In order to determine the susceptibility of copper based sprinkler parts to stress corrosion cracking,
four previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no weep
or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). The samples shall then be subjected to a moist
ammonia environment for a period of 10 days.
The inlet end of each sample shall be filled with deionized water and sealed with a non-reactive
material (e.g., plastic cap) so as to prevent the introduction of the ammonia atmosphere into the
waterway of the sprinkler. The samples to be tested shall be free from any non-permanent
protective coating and, if necessary, shall be degreased. If a permanent coating is an inherent part
of the design, such coating shall be subjected to tests as deemed necessary by FM Approvals to
evaluate its protective integrity. When feasible, the samples shall be tested in their intended
orientation.
There shall be provisions in the test chamber to prevent droplets of condensation from falling from
the top of the enclosure directly onto the sprinklers. Such shield or other means shall be
constructed of glass or other non-reactive materials.
The samples shall be exposed to the moist ammonia-air mixture maintained in a glass chamber
with a volume of 0.73 ± 0.43 ft3 (0.02 ± 0.01 m3).
Aqueous ammonia having a density of 58.7 ± 0.6 lb/ft 3 (0.94 ± 0.01 g/cm3) shall be maintained in
the bottom of the chamber, approximately 1.5 in. (40 mm) below the bottom of the samples. A
volume of aqueous ammonia equal to 0.075 ± 0.006 gal/ft 3 (10 ± 0.86 L/m3) of the test chamber
volume shall result in approximately the following atmospheric concentrations: 35 percent
ammonia, 5 percent water vapor, and 60 percent air. Prior to beginning the exposure, the test
chamber shall be conditioned to a temperature of 93 ± 4°F (34 ± 2°C) for a period of not less than
one hour, and shall be maintained as such throughout the exposure period. The moist ammonia-air
mixture shall be maintained at essentially atmospheric pressure. Provision shall be made for
venting the chamber, such as by the use of a capillary tube, to avoid buildup of pressure.
Upon removal, sprinklers shall be rinsed in potable water and air dried. Following a two- to four-
day drying period, visual examination of the samples shall be made. The samples shall then be
subjected to the post-exposure tests detailed above.
B. Austenitic, Ferritic, and Duplex Stainless Steel Parts (Boiling Magnesium Chloride Test)
In order to determine the susceptibility of stainless steel sprinkler parts to stress corrosion
cracking, at least two previously untested sprinklers shall be degreased and then exposed to a
boiling magnesium chloride solution for a period of 500 ± 12 hours as described below, and in
accordance with ASTM G36, Standard Practice for Evaluating Stress-Corrosion-Cracking
Resistance of Metals and Alloys in a Boiling Magnesium Chloride Solution. Special fixtures or
elevated temperature operating elements may be employed to simulate assembly loading on parts,
where appropriate.
Samples are to be placed in a flask fitted with a wet condenser. The flask shall be filled
approximately one-half full with a nominal 44 percent by weight magnesium chloride solution,
placed on a thermostatically-controlled electrically-heated mantle, and maintained at a boiling
temperature of 302°F ± 4°F (150°C ± 2°C).
Following exposure, the samples shall be removed and rinsed in potable water. Following a two-
to four-day drying period, visual examination of the samples shall be made. The samples shall
then be subjected to the post-exposure tests detailed above.
C. Parts Manufactured from Other Materials
Parts manufactured from other materials shall withstand comparable tests based upon the type of
material employed at the sole discretion of FM Approvals.

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4.19 Corrosion - Carbon Dioxide-Sulfur Dioxide

4.19.1 Requirement
Sprinklers, other than flush and concealed types, shall be resistant to corrosion resulting from
exposures to a moist carbon dioxide-sulfur dioxide-air mixture.
NOTE: At the manufacturer’s request, FM Approvals will test flush or concealed type sprinklers
and, if successful in this and other exposure tests, may Approve these sprinklers for use in
atmospheres subject to corrosion.
Following the exposure period, the samples shall be examined for deterioration or impending
failure of any component. Such condition is unacceptable and constitutes failure. Following the
visual examination, the samples shall not weep or leak at, or below, 175 psi (12.1 bar) when
hydrostatically tested for one minute. Subsequently, half of the samples shall be tested for
compliance with Section 4.8 [Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath)], and half of the samples shall
be tested for conformance to the requirements for sensitivity as described in Sections 4.28
[Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI)], 4.29 [Sensitivity (Recessed, Flush, and Concealed
Types)], and 4.30 [Sensitivity (Air Oven)], as applicable. Should the deflector or other non-
operating components, or their means of attachment exhibit questionable corrosive attack, at least
one sample shall be subjected to water flow at a pressure of 175 psi (12.1 bar) for a period of one
minute. Upon completion of this test, the deflector shall not show evidence of fracture, distortion
or impending separation from the frame.
4.19.2 Tests/Verification
Four previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no
weep or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). The samples shall then be exposed to a moist
carbon dioxide-sulfur dioxide-air mixture for a period of 10 days.
When sprinklers are intended to be classified as corrosion resistant, the samples shall be exposed
for a period of 30 days.
The inlet end of each sample shall be filled with deionized water and sealed with a non-reactive
material (e.g., plastic cap) so as to prevent the introduction of the gas mixture into the waterway of
the sprinkler. When feasible, each sprinkler shall be tested in its intended installation position.
EXCEPTION: Cover plates, common to the design of concealed sprinklers, shall be tested
separately and shall be oriented such that residue and condensate cannot pool on the plate.
There shall be provisions in the test chamber to prevent droplets of condensation from falling from
the top of the enclosure directly onto the sprinklers. Such shield or other means shall be
constructed of glass or other non-reactive materials.
The samples shall be tested in a chamber having provisions for gas inlet and outlet. Sulfur dioxide
and carbon dioxide are to be supplied to the test chamber from commercial cylinders. An amount
of sulfur dioxide equivalent to one percent of the volume of the test chamber, and an equal volume
of carbon dioxide shall be introduced into the chamber each day after the chamber has been
purged. Approximately 0.53 gallons (2.0 liters) of deionized water shall be maintained in the
bottom of the chamber.
Following the exposure, the samples shall be removed from the test chamber and permitted to air
dry for a two- to four-day drying period. Following this drying period, the samples shall be
subjected to the post-exposure tests detailed above.

4.20 Corrosion - Hydrogen Sulfide

4.20.1 Requirement
Sprinklers, other than flush and concealed types, shall be resistant to corrosion resulting from
exposures to a moist hydrogen sulfide-air mixture.

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NOTE: At the manufacturer’s request, FM Approvals will test flush or concealed type sprinklers
and, if successful in this and other exposure tests, may Approve these sprinklers for use in
atmospheres subject to corrosion.
Following the exposure period, the samples shall be examined for deterioration or impending
failure of any component. Such condition is unacceptable and constitutes failure. Following the
visual examination, the samples shall not weep or leak at, or below, 175 psi (12.1 bar) when
hydrostatically tested for one minute. Subsequently, half of the samples shall be tested for
compliance with Section 4.8 [Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath)], and half of the samples shall
be tested for conformance to the requirements for sensitivity as described in Sections 4.28
[Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI)], 4.29 [Sensitivity (Recessed, Flush, and Concealed
Types)], and 4.30 [Sensitivity (Air Oven)], as applicable. Should the deflector or other non-
operating components, or their means of attachment exhibit questionable corrosive attack, at least
one sample shall be subjected to water flow at a pressure of 175 psi (12.1 bar) for a period of one
minute. Upon completion of this test, the deflector shall not show evidence of fracture, distortion
or impending separation from the frame.
4.20.2 Tests/Verification
Four previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no
weep or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). They shall then be exposed to a moist
hydrogen sulfide-air mixture for a period of 10 days.
When sprinklers are intended to be classified as corrosion resistant, the samples shall be exposed
for a period of 30 days.
The inlet end of each sample shall be filled with deionized water and sealed with a non-reactive
material (e.g., plastic cap) so as to prevent the introduction of the gas mixture into the waterway of
the sprinkler. When feasible, each sprinkler shall be tested in its intended installation position.
EXCEPTION: Cover plates, common to the design of concealed sprinklers, shall be tested
separately and shall be oriented such that residue and condensate cannot pool on the plate.
There shall be provisions in the test chamber to prevent droplets of condensation from falling from
the top of the enclosure directly onto the sprinklers. Such shield or other means shall be
constructed of glass or other non-reactive materials.
The samples shall be tested in a chamber having provisions for gas inlet and outlet. Hydrogen
sulfide is to be supplied to the test chamber from a commercial cylinder. An amount of hydrogen
sulfide equivalent to one percent of the volume of the test chamber shall be introduced into the
chamber each day after the chamber has been purged. Approximately 0.53 gallons (2.0 liters) of
deionized water shall be maintained in the bottom of the chamber.
Following the exposure, the samples shall be removed from the test chamber and permitted to air
dry for a two- to four-day drying period. Following this drying period, the samples shall be
subjected to the post-exposure tests detailed above.
4.21 Vibration
4.21.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall be capable of withstanding the effects of vibration without deterioration of their
performance characteristics. Following the vibration test detailed in Section 4.21.2, the sprinklers
shall not weep or leak at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar) when tested in accordance with Section
4.4.2A (Hydrostatic Leakage). Subsequently, the sprinklers shall be tested for conformance to the
requirements for sensitivity as described in Sections 4.28 [Sensitivity - Response Time Index
(RTI)], 4.29 [Sensitivity (Recessed, Flush, and Concealed Types)], and 4.30 [Sensitivity (Air
Oven)], as applicable.

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February 2018 2000

4.21.2 Tests/Verification
Four previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no
weep or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). The samples shall then be subjected to the
vibration conditions stated in Table 4.21.2.
Table 4.21.2. Vibration Conditions
Total Displacement Frequency Time
in. (mm) Hz Hours
0.020 (0.51) 28 5
0.040 (1.02) 28 5
0.150 (3.81) 28 5
0.040 (1.02) 18 to 37 variable 5
0.070 (1.78) 18 to 37 variable 5
For the variable frequency conditions, the frequency shall be varied with a cycle period of 25 ± 5
seconds.
The sprinklers shall be attached to a rigid mounting plate and the plate bolted to the table of a
vibration machine so that the sprinklers are vibrated vertically. This test shall be conducted with
the sprinklers unpressurized. The sprinklers may be pressurized for this test at the sole discretion
of FM Approvals.
The sprinklers shall be subjected to the above vibration conditions and continuously monitored for
15 minutes at each condition (75 minutes total). If one or more resonant point(s) is detected, the
sprinklers shall be vibrated for the remainder of the test at such frequency(ies) for a period of time
proportionate to the number of resonant frequencies. Otherwise the sprinklers shall be subjected to
each vibration condition for a period of 5 hours (25 hours total).
Following this test, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.
4.22 Rough Use and Abuse
4.22.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall have adequate strength to withstand impacts associated with handling, shipment,
and installation without deterioration of performance or reliability. Following the tests detailed
below, a visual examination of each sprinkler shall reveal no permanent distortion, cracks, breaks,
or other evidence of impending failure. Also, each sprinkler shall not weep or leak at, or below,
500 psi (34.5 bar) when tested in accordance with Section 4.4.2A (Hydrostatic Leakage).
Subsequently, the samples shall be tested for conformance to the requirements for sensitivity as
described in Sections 4.28 [Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI)], 4.29 [Sensitivity (Recessed,
Flush, and Concealed Types)], and 4.30 [Sensitivity (Air Oven)], as applicable. Complete
operation of a sprinkler during the tumble test described in Section 4.22.2B is permitted.
In-rack sprinklers shall only be tested to Sections 4.22.2A and 4.22.2C and shall be visually
examined for evidence of damage. Guards shall only be tested to Section 4.22.2D and shall be
visually examined for evidence of damage.
This test is not required for dry sprinklers if they are packaged in such a fashion as to preclude
damage during shipping. Additional testing shall be at the sole discretion of FM Approvals.
4.22.2 Tests/Verification
A. Drop Test - Five previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there
are no weep or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). Each sprinkler shall then be tested by
dropping a weight equal to that of the sprinkler, ± 0.011 lb (± 5 g), onto the deflector end of the
sprinkler along the axial centerline of the waterway (see Figure D-8). The weight shall be dropped
from a height of 3.2 ft ± 2 in. (1.0 m ± 50 mm) above the deflector. The weight shall be prevented
from impacting the test sample more than once.

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B. Tumble Test - Five previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that
there are no weep or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). Each sprinkler shall then be
individually subjected to a tumbling test for three minutes. Sprinklers provided with shipping caps,
which are intended for removal only after completion of the sprinkler installation, shall be tested
with the caps in place. Each sample shall be placed in a vinyl lined right hexagonal prism shaped
drum designed to provide a tumbling action. The drum shall have a length along the axis of
rotation of 10 in. (255 mm). The internal distance between two opposite and parallel sides of the
drum shall be 12 in. (305 mm). For each test, the drum shall contain one sprinkler and five wood
blocks. The blocks shall be 1.5 ± 0.12 in. (40 ± 3 mm) cubes made of hardwood (i.e. oak, maple,
etc.). The drum shall be rotated at one revolution per second about its longitudinal axis.
C. For in-rack sprinklers, five previously untested samples shall not sustain damage when the
assembled sprinklers are individually dropped from a height of 30 ± 1 in. (760 ± 25 mm) onto a
concrete surface such that the shield impacts the floor at an angle. The shield shall not shear off or
bend as a result of this impact. If rotation of the shield is possible, such rotation shall not alter the
assembly load on the sprinkler.
D. For sprinklers with guards, five previously untested samples shall not sustain damage when the
sprinkler/guard assemblies are individually dropped 3 times from a height of 10 ft (3.04 m) onto a
concrete surface. Sprinklers shall not show evidence of damage after the drop sequence. The
guards shall not make contact with the sprinkler deflector or become separated from the sprinkler
as a result of the drop sequence.
Following these tests, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.
4.23 High Temperature Exposure
4.23.1 Requirement
Sprinklers, less operating mechanisms, shall not show significant deformation, blistering, or
fracture following exposure to an elevated temperature as detailed below. FM Approvals may
conduct Discharge Coefficient (K-Factor), (Section 4.15) and/or Distribution (Section 4.31, 4.32
or 0) tests on exposed samples to validate compliance with these requirements.
4.23.2 Tests/Verification
One previously untested, but open, sprinkler, supported on its threaded inlet, shall be heated in an
oven or furnace having a temperature of 1470 ± 20°F (800 ± 11°C) for a period of 15 minutes.
Following this exposure, the sprinkler shall be removed with tongs, preferably by holding the
threaded inlet portion, and promptly submerged in a water bath with a temperature of 60 ± 10°F
(15 ± 6°C).
4.24 Freezing
4.24.1 Requirement
Following exposure to freezing temperatures, sprinklers shall either (a) operate, (b) leak
subsequent to thawing when hydrostatically pressurized from 5 to 175 psi (0.35 to 12.1bar), or (c)
sustain no damage. For (c), sprinklers shall not weep or leak at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar) and
subsequently, the sprinklers shall be tested for conformance to the requirements for sensitivity as
described in Sections 4.28 [Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI)], 4.29 [Sensitivity (Recessed,
Flush, and Concealed Types)], and 4.30 [Sensitivity (Air Oven)], as applicable.
4.24.2 Tests/Verification
Two previously untested sprinklers shall be hydrostatically tested to confirm that there are no
weep or leak points at, or below, 500 psi (34.5 bar). Each sprinkler shall be attached to one end of
a 10 in. (254 mm) minimum length of 1 in. nominal diameter Schedule 40 or 80 steel pipe using
an appropriate fitting. Each assembly shall then be filled to capacity with water and sealed. The
samples shall then be exposed to a temperature of -20 °F ± 10°F (-30°C ± 5 °C) for a period of 24
hours, or until operation occurs.
Following this test, the samples shall be subjected to the post-tests detailed above.

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4.25 Minimum Operating Pressure

4.25.1 Requirement
Sprinklers shall be designed to produce positive operation and release of all operating parts at the
minimum operating pressure stated in Table 4.25.1. Following operation of the heat responsive
element, all parts which are intended to prohibit the discharge or leakage of water shall clear the
exit of the waterway within 5 seconds.
For sprinklers designed such that moveable parts are not intended to be released or expelled,
proper actuation of all components to permit full water discharge is required.
Table 4.25.1. Minimum Operating Pressure
Operating Pressure
Type of Sprinkler
psi (bar)
Dry upright 10 (0.7)
K-factor 2.8 and 5.6 3 (0.2)
All others, including all other dry types 5 (0.3)
4.25.2 Tests/Verification
Ten previously untested sprinklers shall be individually installed on a pipe manifold in their
intended orientation, if feasible, and subjected to an inlet water pressure at, or below, that shown
in Table 4.25.1. Each sample shall be operated using a suitable heat source. If a sample does not
operate fully as described above, the pressure shall be slowly increased to determine the actual
minimum operating pressure.
4.26 Process Residue
4.26.1 Requirement
In order to evaluate the resistance of the assembly to years of service in dusty or corrosive
environments, sprinklers, other than flush and concealed types, shall withstand a timed exposure
to a salt spray atmosphere.
4.26.2 Tests/Verification
Verification of Section 4.26.1 shall be made in conjunction with Section 4.17 (Corrosion - Salt
Spray). Additional process residue tests may be conducted at the sole discretion of FM Approvals.
4.27 Conductivity (C-Factor)
4.27.1 Requirement
The conductivity (C-factor) shall not exceed 1.81 (ft/s)1/2 [1.0 (m/s)1/2] for quick response and
extended coverage type sprinklers. Standard response sprinklers shall have a C-factor not
exceeding 3.62 (ft/s)1/2 [2.0 (m/s)1/2].
Coated, dry, flush, recessed and concealed sprinklers are not subject to these requirements.
4.27.2 Tests/Verification
The C-factor shall be determined using the prolonged plunge test method. The prolonged plunge
test is an iterative process to determine the C-factor and may require up to twenty sprinkler
samples. A new sprinkler sample shall be used for each test even if the sample does not operate
during the test.
Determination of the C-factor shall be performed with sprinklers of each nominal temperature
rating in the "best case" orientation as determined in the Sensitivity Test (Section 4.28).
Prior to testing, each sprinkler shall have one to three wraps of PTFE sealant tape applied to the
threads. Sprinklers shall be allowed to reach ambient temperature for a period of not less than 30
minutes.

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A minimum of 0.1 oz. (3 ml) of water, conditioned to ambient temperature, shall be introduced
into the sprinkler inlet and mounting fixture prior to testing.
All sprinklers are to be tested with the inlet end of each sample connected to a source of pressure
at 5 +0.5/-0 psi [0.3(+0.04/-0) bar]. All tests shall be conducted with the geometric center of the
heat responsive element located at least 1.5 in. (38 mm) from the interior horizontal surfaces of the
test section, and with the centerline of the waterway perpendicular to the airflow in the test
chamber.
A timer accurate to ± 0.01 seconds with suitable measuring devices to sense the time between
when the sprinkler is plunged into the tunnel and when it operates shall be utilized to obtain the
response time.
The mount temperature shall be maintained at 68 ± 2°F (20 ± 1°C) for the duration of each test.
The mount temperature shall be recorded at the beginning of the test and at the time of sprinkler
operation. If a sample does not operate, the mount temperature shall be recorded after 15 minutes
has elapsed. Testing shall start with a tunnel gas temperature from the range detailed in Table
4.27.2.
To determine the C-factor, each sprinkler shall be immersed in the test stream at a selected gas
velocity and air temperature for a maximum of 15 minutes. The average gas velocity in the tunnel
test section at the sprinkler location shall be maintained within ± 0.2 ft/s (0.07 m/s) of the selected
velocity. Velocities are to be chosen such that actuation is bracketed between two successive test
velocities. That is, two velocities shall be established such that, at the lower velocity (uL),
actuation does not occur in the 15 minute test interval. At the next higher velocity (uH), actuation
shall occur within the 15 minute time limit. To establish uL and uH, the velocity shall be raised by
10 percent increments within the range detailed in Table 4.27.2. If the sprinkler does not operate at
the highest velocity in the range, a higher temperature shall be used and the same procedure
repeated.
Table 4.27.2. Range of Test Conditions for C-factor
Maximum Variation of Gas
Sprinkler Nominal Tunnel Gas Tunnel Gas Temperature During Test From
Operating Temperature1 Temperature Velocity Selected Temperatures
°F (°C) ft/s (m/s)
°F (°C) °F (°C)
135 - 170 (57 - 77) ± 11 (± 6)
170 - 225 (79 - 107) 190 - 765 0.7 - 10 ± 16 (± 9)
250 - 300 (121 - 149) (88 - 407) (0.2 - 3.05) ± 45 (± 25)
325 - 375 (163 - 191) ± 45 (± 25)
1For
Note: temperature ratings between those shown, a linear interpolation shall be used to determine the
maximum variation from selected temperature.
Test velocity selection shall insure that:
(uH/uL)1/2 ≤ 1.1
The C-factor of the sprinkler is determined by computing the average of the C-factors calculated at
the two velocities (uH and uL) using the following equations:
CH = (ΔTg/ ΔTb-1) uH½ CL = (ΔTg/ ΔTb-1) uL½ C  CH
C L
2
Where:
CH is the C-factor at velocity uH
CL is the C-factor at velocity uL
C is the average C-factor of the sprinkler
ΔTg is the actual gas (air) temperature minus the mount temperature
ΔTb is the mean liquid bath operating temperature minus the mount temperature

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uH is the actual gas velocity in the test section at which the sprinklers operated
uL is the actual gas velocity in the test section at which the sprinklers failed to operate within
15 minutes
The C-factor is determined by repeating the bracketing procedure. The C-factor values from at
least two non-operations shall be averaged. The C-factor values from at least two operations shall
be averaged. The final C-factor value is the calculated numerical average of these two values.
4.28 Sensitivity - Response Time Index (RTI)
4.28.1 Requirement
The following definitions apply to this section:
Orientation, Best Case – The orientation of a sprinkler which results in the fastest operating time,
or the lowest Response Time Index (RTI). Typically, this orientation is one in which the sprinkler
waterway axis and the plane of the frame arms are both perpendicular to the air flow and, in the
case of non-symmetric elements, the heat responsive element is upstream of the frame arms.
Orientation, Worst Case – For use in this standard, the worst case orientation is a given angular
offset from the orientation which results in the slowest operating time, or the highest Response
Time Index (RTI). For standard response sprinklers, this angular offset is 15 degrees. The angular
offset for quick response sprinklers is 25 degrees.
A. All new standard response sprinklers, with the exception of coated, flush, recessed, and concealed
types, shall meet the following requirements:
1. The Response Time Index (RTI) shall fall within the limits detailed in Figure D-2 when the
sprinkler is tested in the best case orientation as described in Section 4.28.2.
2. The RTI shall be less than or equal to 1090 (ft·s)1/2 [600 (m·s)1/2], or 250 percent of the
measured RTI in the best case orientation, whichever is less, when the sprinkler is tested in
the worst case orientation as described in Section 4.28.2.
B. All new quick response sprinklers, with the exception of coated, flush, recessed, and concealed
types, shall have an RTI not exceeding 90 (ft·s)1/2 [50 (m·s)1/2] when tested in the best case
orientation.
C. Unless otherwise permitted due to results of performance based testing, such as full scale fire tests,
extended coverage non-storage (light and ordinary hazard) type sprinklers shall meet the
requirements for quick response sprinklers.
D. Recessed, flush and concealed sprinklers shall comply with the requirements of the Sensitivity
Test for recessed, flush and concealed sprinklers (Section 4.29).
E. In the case of sprinklers for which testing in accordance with Section 4.28.2 is not practical (such
as wax coated), the sensitivity requirement shall be that the time for operation in a controlled rate-
of-temperature-rise air oven not exceed the limits shown in Table 4.30.1.2 or Table 4.30.1.3, as
appropriate, when tested in accordance with the Air Oven Sensitivity Test (Section 4.30).
F. As an exception to the RTI limits in this section, one of the ten RTI values may deviate from the
specified limits by not more than 10 percent.
4.28.2 Tests/Verification
Compliance with the requirements for RTI shall be determined by operating sprinkler samples in
the FM Approvals plunge tunnel, as described below. The FM Approvals plunge tunnel is further
described in documents 1 through 4 as referenced in Section 1.10. All tests shall be conducted
with the geometric center of the heat responsive element located at least 1.5 in. (38 mm) from the
interior horizontal surfaces of the test section, and with the waterway centerline perpendicular to
the air flow through the test chamber.
A. Ten samples shall be tested in the best case orientation, as described in Section 4.28.1. If, in the
judgment of FM Approvals, compliance with the requirements for worst-case RTI (See Section

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4.28.1A.1) is in question, a sufficient number of tests may be conducted in various sprinkler

orientations relative to air flow, such that the worse-case orientation is determined. Subsequently,
five samples shall be tested in the worst case orientation, and five samples shall be tested in the
best case orientation.
B. The plunge tests are conducted using the sprinkler mount detailed in Figure D-9. Each sprinkler
shall have one to three wrap(s) of PTFE sealant tape applied to the sprinkler threads and shall be
threaded into the mount at the sprinkler mounting connection. An air supply is then attached at the
air hose connection and shall be pressurized to 5 (+0.5/-0) psi [0.3 (+0.04/-0) bar].
C. A tunnel with gas velocity and temperature conditions at the test section established in accordance
with Table 4.28.2 shall be utilized to conduct the sensitivity test. To minimize radiation exchange
between the sensing element and the boundaries confining the flow, the test section of the
apparatus shall be constructed of appropriate materials with an uninsulated metal test duct. Tunnel
conditions shall be stabilized for a minimum of 30 minutes prior to testing.
D. Each sprinkler and sprinkler mount shall be allowed to reach ambient temperature for a period of
not less than 30 minutes prior to testing.
E. A timer accurate to ± 0.01 seconds, with suitable controlling devices [e.g., mechanical switch for
plunge (start), pressure switch for operation (stop)], shall be utilized to accurately measure the
time to operate.
Table 4.28.2. Plunge Test Conditions
Sprinkler Nominal Average Gas (Air)
Temperature in Test Section
Temperature Rating Velocity of Test Section
°F (°C) °F (°C) ft/s (m/s)
135 - 171 (57 - 77) 387 ± 11 (197 ± 6)
174 - 225 (79 - 107) 555 ± 16 (291 ± 9)
8.4 ± 0.2 (2.56 ± 0.07)
250 - 300 (121 - 149) 765 ± 45 (407 ± 25)
325 - 375 (163 - 191) 765 ± 45 (407 ± 25)
F. In all cases, the RTI shall meet the requirements as stated in Section 4.28.1 when calculated as
follows:
 
  tr u1 / 2 
RTI     1  C / u 
1/ 2

 
 ln 1  T 1  C / u 1 / 2  / T
b g  

Where:
tr = response time of the sprinkler, in seconds
u= actual air velocity in the test section of the tunnel (from Table 4.28.2), in ft/s (m/s)
ΔTb = mean operating temperature of the sprinkler, as determined in Section 4.8 [Operating
Temperature (Liquid Bath)] minus the ambient temperature, in °F (°C)
ΔTg = actual gas (air) temperature minus the ambient temperature, in °F (°C)
C= C-factor as determined in Section 4.27 [Conductivity (C-Factor)], in (ft/s)1/2 [(m/s)1/2]

4.29 Sensitivity (Recessed, Flush, and Concealed Types)

4.29.1 Requirement
Recessed, flush and concealed sprinklers shall operate within the maximum response times as
calculated in Section 4.29.2A when tested as detailed in Section 4.29.2B, in the least protrusive
position possible.

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Recessed, flush, and concealed extended coverage hazard category 1 (formerly light hazard)
sprinklers shall meet the requirements of quick response sprinklers.
Recessed, flush and concealed sprinklers which have been subjected to tests that require post-
exposure sensitivity testing shall be tested at plunge tunnel conditions corresponding to a gas
temperature of 387°F (197°C) and a velocity of 8.4 ft/s (2.56 m/s).
4.29.2 Tests/Verification
A. The maximum response time shall be calculated using the combinations of RTI and C-factor
shown in Table 4.29.2.1 and the plunge tunnel conditions detailed in Table 4.29.2.2 for the
respective response category. Calculations that return an invalid result shall be disregarded.
Table 4.29.2.1. RTI and C-Factor Combinations
Response RTI C-Factor Offset Angle
Category (ft·s) 1/2 1/2
[(m·s) ] (ft/s) 1/2
[(m/s)1/2] (degrees)
635 [350] 1.8 [1.0] 0
Standard 455 [250] 3.6 [2.0] 0
1090 [600] 9.0 [5.0] 15
90 [50] 1.4 [0.8] 0
Quick 55 [30] 1.8 [1.0] 0
225 [125] 3.6 [2.0] 25

Table 4.29.2.2. Tunnel Conditions

Plunge Tunnel Plunge Tunnel Applied
Response
Gas Temperature Gas Velocity Vacuum
Category
°F (°C) ft/sec (m/s) mm Hg
8.4 (2.56) 0.007
275 (135)
11.5 (3.5) 0.007
8.4 (2.56) 0.010
Standard 387 (197)
11.5 (3.5) 0.010
8.4 (2.56) 0.013
555 (291)
11.5 (3.5) 0.013
8.4 (2.56) 0.007
275 (135)
11.5 (3.5) 0.007
Quick
8.4 (2.56) 0.010
387 (197)
11.5 (3.5) 0.010
The maximum permitted sprinkler operating times can be calculated using the following equation:

tmax 

 RTI  ln 1  Tb 1  C / u 1 / 2  / Tg 
u 1 / 2  1  C / u 1 / 2 
Where:
tmax = maximum allowed response time of sprinkler, in seconds
RTI = Response Time Index from Table 4.29.2.1, in (ft·s)1/2 [(m·s)1/2]
ΔTb = upper temperature limit of the sprinkler (1.035 x nominal temperature rating) minus an
average ambient temperature, in °F (°C)
NOTE: the ambient temperature is considered to be 68°F (20°C) for calculation purposes.
C= C- factor from Table 4.29.2.1, in (ft/s)1/2 [(m/s)1/2]
u= actual gas (air) velocity in the test section of the tunnel from Table 4.29.2.2, in ft/s (m/s)

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ΔTg = actual gas (air) temperature, corrected for radiation effects on the temperature sensing
device, in the test section (see Table 4.29.2.2) minus the ambient temperature, in °F (°C)
B. For calculations that return valid results, three samples shall be tested at the corresponding tunnel
conditions/offset angle. Compliance with the requirements for maximum operating time shall be
determined by operating sprinkler samples in the FM Approvals plunge tunnel, using the modified
plunge tunnel test plate described in Figure D-10.
The sprinklers shall be tested in both the best case orientation and the worst case orientation as if
the sprinkler was a pendent sprinkler. For the worst case orientation, the angular offset shall be 15
degrees for standard response sprinklers and 25 degrees for quick response (see Table 4.29.2.1).
Unless the sprinkler design prevents it, a vacuum in accordance with Table 4.29.2.2 shall be
applied to and maintained in the upper enclosure of the modified plunge tunnel test plate (Figure
D-10).

4.30 Sensitivity (Air Oven)

4.30.1 Requirement
New, uncoated sprinklers which cannot be tested in the plunge tunnel shall operate within a time
limit not exceeding the maximum permitted in Table 4.30.1.1 for the respective nominal
temperature rating.
New sprinklers having corrosion resistant coatings (decorative, wax, etc.), which cannot be tested
in the plunge tunnel, shall operate within a time limit not exceeding the maximum permitted in
Table 4.30.1.2 for the respective nominal temperature rating.
Sprinklers having corrosion resistant coatings (decorative, wax, etc.), which cannot be tested in the
plunge tunnel, and have been subjected to environmental testing, shall operate within the limits
stated in Table 4.30.1.3.
Table 4.30.1.1. Air Oven Sprinkler Sensitivity for New, Uncoated Sprinklers
Utilizing the Time vs. Temperature Data per Table 4.30.2
Sprinkler Nominal Maximum Operating Maximum
Temperature Rating Temperature Operating Time
°F (°C) °F (°C) min:sec
135 - 170 (57 - 76) 525 (274) 1:15
175 - 225 (79 - 107) 550 (288) 1:45
250 - 300 (121 - 149) 575 (302) 3:00
325 - 375 (163 - 191) 605 (319) 5:00
400 - 475 (204 - 246) 640 (338) 7:30
500 - 575 (260 - 302) 735 (391) 15:00

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Table 4.30.1.2. Air Oven Sprinkler Sensitivity for New Sprinklers Having Corrosion
Resistant Coating Utilizing the Time vs. Temperature Data per Table 4.30.2
Sprinkler Nominal Maximum Operating Maximum
Temperature Rating Temperature Operating Time
°F (°C) °F (°C) min:sec
135 - 170 (57 - 76) 527 (275) 1:34
175 - 225 (79 - 107) 559 (293) 2:11
250 - 300 (121 - 149) 586 (308) 3:45
325 - 375 (163 - 191) 622 (328) 6:15
400 - 475 (204 - 246) 664 (351) 9:22
500 - 575 (260 - 302) 786 (419) 18:45

Table 4.30.1.3. Air Oven Sprinkler Sensitivity for Aged or Elevated Temperature
Exposed Sprinklers Having Corrosion Resistant Coating Utilizing the
Time vs. Temperature Data per Table 4.30.2
Sprinkler Nominal Temperature Maximum Operating Maximum
Rating Temperature Operating Time
°F (°C) °F (°C) min:sec
135 - 170 (57 - 76) 555 (291) 2:00
175 - 225 (79 - 107) 575 (302) 3:00
250 - 300 (121 - 149) 605 (319) 5:00
325 - 375 (163 - 191) 645 (341) 8:00
400 - 475 (204 - 246) 670 (355) 10:00
500 (260) and Over to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis

4.30.2 Tests/Verification
Ten previously untested sprinklers of each nominal temperature rating shall be individually
operated in an air oven with the inlet of the sprinkler pressurized to the minimum operating
pressure in accordance with Table 4.25.1. The rate-of-temperature-rise within the oven shall be
controlled in accordance with Table 4.30.2.
Table 4.30.2. Time vs. Temperature Points for air Oven Sprinkler Sensitivity Test
Time Temp Time Temp Time Temp
min:sec °F (°C) min:sec °F (°C) min:sec °F (°C)
0:15 275 (135) 6:00 620 (327) 16:00 750 (399)
0:30 410 (210) 7:00 630 (332) 17:00 765 (407)
0:45 475 (246) 8:00 645 (341) 18:00 778 (414)
1:00 505 (263) 9:00 660 (349) 19:00 790 (421)
1:15 525 (274) 10:00 670 (354) 20:00 805 (429)
1:30 540 (282) 11:00 685 (363) 22:00 830 (443)
2:00 555 (290) 12:00 695 (368) 24:00 855 (457)
3:00 575 (302) 13:00 710 (377) 26:00 880 (471)
4:00 590 (310) 14:00 725 (385) 28:00 905 (485)
5:00 605 (318) 15:00 735 (391) 30:00 930 (499)

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4.31 Distribution - Standard Coverage Sprinklers

4.31.1 Requirement
A. Upright and pendent standard coverage sprinklers shall be capable of distributing water in a
uniform manner. Samples shall be tested as detailed in Section 4.31.2.A and shall meet the
requirements in Table 4.31.2 for the appropriate nominal K-factor. For each test condition, not
more than one individual pan shall have a collection less than the minimum required. Dry pans
(i.e., zero water collection) are not permitted.
B. Standard sidewall sprinklers (horizontal and vertical) shall be tested as detailed in Section
4.31.2.B. The amount of water collected in any individual pan shall not be less than 0.030
gal/min/ft2 (1.22 mm/min) and the average collection shall not be less than 0.050 gal/min/ft 2 (2.04
mm/min), for the area covered. EXCEPTION: Up to two non-adjacent pans may have a collection
less than 0.030 gal/min/ft2 (1.22 mm/min). Dry pans (i.e., zero water collection) are not permitted.
Sidewall sprinklers shall provide a minimum of 3.5 percent of the total discharge [i.e., at least
0.525 gal/min (1.99 L/min) in the 10 ft (3.05 m) span between sprinklers] against the back wall
and shall wet the back wall completely from the floor up to 4 feet (1.2 m) below the deflector. No
dry areas are allowed within that region.
C. Sprinklers with factory painted or decorative finishes, such as plating, shall comply with the same
performance criteria as those without such finishes.
D. When sprinklers are fitted with protective guards, such guards shall not degrade the average
collection by more than 20 percent. Minimum average and individual pan requirements shall be
ignored. However, dry pans are not permitted.
E. For sprinklers with corrosion resistant coatings such as wax, prior to the distribution tests, the
coated samples shall be operated in the air oven (Section 4.30) and exposed for the maximum
operating time for the appropriate temperature rating as stated in Table 4.30.1.2. The presence of a
corrosion resistant coating shall not degrade the average collection by more than 10 percent.
Minimum individual pan requirements shall be ignored. However, dry pans are not permitted.
4.31.2 Tests/Verification
The appropriate number of previously untested samples shall be subjected to the distribution test
conditions detailed in Table 4.31.2 for the type of sprinkler under examination. All samples shall
be provided completely assembled. Prior to distribution testing, the sprinklers shall be operated,
using a suitable heat source, to remove the heat responsive assembly. In cases where adjustment
of the distance between the deflector and the ceiling or wall is possible, (e.g., recessed type), the
distribution tests shall be conducted at both extremes of deflector position.
A. Upright and Pendent Sprinklers
The water discharge from four and six sprinklers shall be collected in sixteen 1 ft 2 (0.09 m2) pans
positioned as shown in Figure D-11. The piping configurations for upright and pendent sprinklers
are shown in Figures D-12, D-13 and D-14. Water shall be collected for a period of not less than
three minutes in accordance with the conditions detailed in Table 4.31.2.
Upright sprinklers shall be tested utilizing the branch lines shown in Figure D-12, and located
below a suspended ceiling. Unless deemed otherwise by FM Approvals, all pendent sprinklers
shall be installed in their intended installation position utilizing a suspended ceiling and supplied
with water from branch lines located above the ceiling (Figure D-13 and D-14). Exception:
Sprinklers intended for use in high temperature ovens may be installed directly into tees for the
purpose of distribution testing. In cases where adjustment of the distance between the deflector
and the ceiling is possible, (e.g., recessed type), the distribution tests shall be conducted at both
extremes of deflector position. Sprinklers shall be installed such that their deflectors are positioned
7.5 ft (2.3 m) from the top plane of the pan array. Sprinklers shall be randomly selected and
installed with the frame arms parallel to the branch line pipe. Repositioning of sprinklers, or
placing specific sprinklers in specific locations, is not permitted.

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Table 4.31.2. Distribution Requirements

Nominal Average Water Flow Minimum Average Minimum
K-Factor Number of per Sprinkler Collection Individual Pan
Sprinklers
in. gal/min (L/min) gal/min/ft2 (mm/min) gal/min/ft2 (mm/min)
4 6.4 (24.2) 0.064 (2.6) 0.050 (2.0)
4 8.3 (31.4) 0.083 (3.4) 0.060 (2.4)
2.8
4 12.0 (45.4) 0.120 (4.9) 0.090 (3.7)
6 8.3 (31.4) 0.083 (3.4) 0.060 (2.4)
4 12.8 (48.4) 0.128 (5.2) 0.095 (3.9)
4 16.6 (62.8) 0.166 (6.8) 0.125 (5.1)
5.6
4 24.0 (90.8) 0.240 (9.8) 0.180 (7.3)
6 16.6 (62.8) 0.166 (6.8) 0.125 (5.1)
4 17.9 (67.8) 0.179 (7.3) 0.135 (5.5)
4 23.2 (87.8) 0.232 (9.4) 0.175 (7.1)
8.0
4 33.6 (127.2) 0.336 (13.7) 0.250 (10.2)
6 23.2 (87.8) 0.232 (9.4) 0.175 (7.1)
4 35.5 (134.4) 0.355 (14.7) 0.265 (11.0)
4 50.0 (189.3) 0.500 (20.4) 0.375 (15.3)
11.2
6 36.0 (136.3) 0.360 (14.7) 0.270 (11.0)
6 50.0 (189.3) 0.500 (20.4) 0.375 (15.3)
4 37.5 (142.0) 0.375 (15.3) 0.280 (11.4)
4 60.3 (228.3) 0.603 (24.6) 0.450 (18.3)
14.0
6 37.5 (142.0) 0.375 (15.3) 0.280 (11.4)
6 60.3 (228.3) 0.603 (24.6) 0.450 (18.3)
4 44.4 (168.4) 0.444 (18.1) 0.330 (13.4)
4 73.2 (277.5) 0.732 (29.8) 0.550 (22.4)
16.8
6 44.5 (168.4) 0.445 (18.1) 0.335 (13.6)
6 73.3 (277.5) 0.733 (29.9) 0.550 (22.4)
NOTE: For upright sprinklers in the 6-sprinkler test, the requirements apply only to the two rows of
pans furthest from the pipe. The two middle rows shall be omitted from the collection results
and are exempted due to the unavoidable pipe shadow.
B. Sidewall Sprinklers
1. Floor Collection – One hundred pans, each with a collection area measuring 12 x 12 in.
(305 x 305 mm) shall be arranged in a 10 x 10 ft (3.05 x 3.05 m) square, centered between
two sidewall sprinklers installed 10 ft (3.05 m) apart. The pans shall cover an area 2 to 12 ft
(0.6 to 3.7 m) outward from the wall. For vertical type sidewall sprinklers, the tops of the
pans shall be located 6 ft. 8 in. (2.03 m) below the deflectors. For horizontal type sidewall
sprinklers, the tops of the pans shall be located 6 ft. 8 in. (2.03 m) below the projected axial
centerline of the orifice (see Figure D-15). For either type, the deflector shall be located 6
in. (153 mm) from the wall and 4 in. (100 mm) from the ceiling as shown in Figure D-16.
Each sprinkler shall flow water at a rate of 15 gal/min (56.8 L/min) and water shall be
collected for a period of not less than three minutes.
2. Back-Wall Collection and Wetting – During the floor collection test, a measurement of the
quantity of water being discharged onto the wall behind the sprinkler shall be made. Water
shall be collected from the area of the back wall between the two sprinklers by means of a
single row of 2 in. (51 mm) wide collecting pans, or other collection apparatus, such as a
channel abutting the back wall. The opening in the top of the collection apparatus shall be

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located not more than 18 in. (457 mm) above the floor. The back wall shall be visually
inspected for complete wetting in accordance with the requirements of Section 4.31.1.B.

4.32 Distribution – Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 (HC-1) Sprinklers

4.32.1 Requirement
When tested as detailed in Section 4.32.2 and using the conditions in Tables 4.32.2.1 and 4.32.2.2,
extended coverage hazard category 1 sprinklers shall perform satisfactorily in all coverage areas
indicated. The distribution collection shall exhibit the following:
• No dry pans (i.e., zero water collection)
• Not more than one pan with water collection less than 0.015 gal/min/ft2 (0.61 mm/min)
• Average collection of all pans not less than 0.040 gal/min/ft2 (1.63 mm/min); and,
• Complete wall wetting up to 3 ft (0.9 m) from the floor on all walls. No dry areas shall be
permitted within this region.
4.32.2 Tests/Verification
The collection pan array is shown in Figure D-17 and consists of water collection pans measuring
19.7 in x 19.7 in. (0.5 m x 0.5 m). For upright and pendent sprinklers, water distribution shall be
measured and recorded for one quadrant of the coverage area. For sidewall sprinklers, water
distribution shall be measured and recorded for one half of the coverage area. If visual observation
indicates a non-symmetrical distribution pattern, water distribution shall be measured and recorded
for the entire coverage area. Wall wetting shall be verified using a 4 ft (1.2 m) high wall enclosing
the coverage area and covered with paper as needed for visual verification. Water shall be
collected for a period of not less than 6 minutes.
In cases where adjustment of the distance between the deflector and the ceiling is possible, (i.e.,
recessed type), distribution tests shall be conducted at both extremes of deflector position.
Table 4.32.2.1. Distribution Test Conditions for Upright and Pendent Extended Coverage Hazard
Category 1 Sprinklers
Deflector to Ceiling End Head
Nominal Coverage Area Flow Rate
Distance Pressure
K-Factor
ft x ft (m x m) in. (m) gal/min (L/min) psi (bar)
16 x 16 (4.9 x 4.9) 4 (0.10) 26 (100) 22 (1.5)
5.6 18 x 18 (5.5 x 5.5) 4 (0.10) 33 (125) 35 (2.4)
20 x 20 (6.1 x 6.1) 4 (0.10) 40 (150) 51 (3.5)
16 x 16 (4.9 x 4.9) 4 (0.10) 26 (100) 11 (0.8)
8.0 18 x 18 (5.5 x 5.5) 4 (0.10) 33 (125) 17 (1.2)
20 x 20 (6.1 x 6.1) 4 (0.10) 40 (150) 25 (1.7)
16 x 16 (4.9 x 4.9) 4 (0.10) 30 (115) 7 (0.5)
11.2 18 x 18 (5.5 x 5.5) 4 (0.10) 33 (125) 9 (0.6)
20 x 20 (6.1 x 6.1) 4 (0.10) 40 (150) 13 (0.9)
16 x 16 (4.9 x 4.9) 4 (0.10) 37 (139) 7 (0.5)
14.0 18 x 18 (5.5 x 5.5) 4 (0.10) 37 (139) 7 (0.5)
20 x 20 (6.1 x 6.1) 4 (0.10) 40 (150) 8 (0.5)

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Table 4.32.2.2. Distribution Test Conditions for Sidewall Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1
Sprinklers
Deflector to End Head
Nominal Coverage Area Flow Rate
Ceiling Distance Pressure
K-Factor
ft x ft (m x m) in. (m) gal/min (L/min) psi (bar)
16 x 16 (4.9 x 4.9) 4 and 12 (0.10 and 0.30) 26 (100) 22 (1.5)
5.6 16 x 18 (4.9 x 5.5) 4 and 12 (0.10 and 0.30) 30 (115) 29 (2.0)
16 x 20 (4.9 x 6.1) 4 and 12 (0.10 and 0.30) 33 (125) 35 (2.4)
16 x 16 (4.9 x 4.9) 4 and 12 (0.10 and 0.30) 32 (120) 16 (1.1)
16 x 18 (4.9 x 5.5) 4 and 12 (0.10 and 0.30) 36 (135) 20 (1.4)
8.0 16 x 20 (4.9 x 6.1) 4 and 12 (0.10 and 0.30) 40 (150) 25 (1.7)
16 x 22 (4.9 x 6.7) 4 and 12 (0.10 and 0.30) 44 (165) 30 (2.0)
16 x 24 (4.9 x 7.3) 4 and 12 (0.10 and 0.30) 48 (180) 36 (2.5)

4.33 Distribution - K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall Sprinklers
4.33.1 Requirement
K14.0 (K200) non-storage extended coverage horizontal sidewall sprinklers shall be capable of
distributing water in a uniform manner. Samples shall be tested as detailed in Section 4.33.2.
• In the 14 ft wide x 12.5 ft long (4.3 m wide x 3.8 m long) area of coverage:
• The average distribution collection shall be greater than or equal to 0.088 gal/min/ft 2 (3.59
mm/min).
• The lowest single pan collection shall be greater than or equal to 0.033 gal/min/ft 2 (1.35
mm/min).
• As an exception to the lowest single pan requirement, no more than two pans may have
collection below 0.033 gal/min/ft2 (1.35 mm/min). Dry pans are not permitted.
• In the area located under the beam:
• The lowest single pan collection shall be greater than or equal to 0.008 gal/min/ft 2 (0.33
mm/min).
4.33.2 Tests/Verification
Tests shall be conducted using a single sprinkler operating at a nominal discharge pressure of 7.4
psi (0.5 bar), which corresponds to a nominal discharge density of 0.22 gal/min/ft 2 (8.96 mm/min).
The sprinkler shall be connected to a nominal 2 in. diameter Schedule 40 branch line with a
nominal 2 in. x 2 in. x 1¼ in. diameter tee. The sprinkler shall be installed into the tee through a
nominal 1¼ in. x ¾ in. diameter bushing. The sprinkler ceiling-to-orifice centerline shall be
approximately 11 in. (28 cm). Collection shall be taken in 1.64 ft x 1.64 ft (0.5 m x 0.5 m) pans.
A. A distribution test shall be conducted with the sprinkler deflector positioned 17 ft (5.2 m) from the
top of the collection pans. Water shall be collected in at least one half of the area of coverage, with
approximately 12.75 in. (32 cm) of the coverage area located behind the vertical plane of the
sprinkler orifice. This represents a maximum horizontal distance, D, of 18 in. (46 cm) (see Figure
D-18) between the orifice planes of back-to-back sprinklers, with a 3.75 in. (9.5 cm) coverage area
overlap. Alternately, it represents a maximum horizontal distance, A, of 4 in. (10.2 cm) (see
Figure D-18) from the plane of the sprinkler orifice beyond the outermost edge of the widest
permissible bottom beam flange.
B. The test described in Section 4.34.2.A shall be repeated with a distance from sprinkler deflector to
top of pans, H, of 10 ft (3 m) (see Figure D-18). This represents the minimum allowable vertical
clearance to commodity.

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C. Next, a screen shall be placed behind and below the sprinkler to represent a bottom flange beam
obstruction with the outer edge of the flange 1 in. (2.5 cm) behind the plane of the orifice (i.e. A =
1 in.) and located 7 ft 4 in. (2.24 m) down from the sprinkler deflector. Collection shall be taken in
at least one half of the 14 ft (4.3 m) wide coverage area, with at least 1 row of collection pans both
in front of and behind the screen.
4.34 Impingement (Angle of Protection)
4.34.1 Requirement
In-rack sprinklers shall be so designed as to provide an "angle of protection" for the heat
responsive assembly against direct impingement or run-off water from the shield caused by the
discharge from neighboring sprinklers installed at higher elevations.
The "angle of protection" created by the water shield, as indicated in Figure D-1, shall not exceed
45 degrees. Where unusual geometry or method of mounting the shield to the sprinkler exists,
additional tests may be conducted as deemed necessary by FM Approvals. Protective guards
incorporating shields shall also be subjected to this test.
4.34.2 Tests/Verification
Measure the angle in accordance with Figure D-1.
4.35 Actual Delivered Density (ADD) - Extended Coverage Sprinklers for Protection of Hazard Categories
1 – 3 (HC-1 through HC-3)
4.35.1 Requirement
K11.2 (K160) and K14.0 (K200) extended coverage hazard category 1 – 3 sprinklers shall meet
the requirements stated in Tables 4.35.1a and b respectively for the tests described in Section
4.35.2 when tested in the FM Approvals ADD/PWD apparatus.

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Table 4.35.1a. ADD Measurements for K11.2 (K160) Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 – 3 Sprinklers
Number of Ceiling Freeburn Center Pan Pre-Wetting
Sprinklers Clearance to Conv. Heat Area Average Area Average
Centered Sprinkler Pipe Water Release Density Density
Sprinkler Over the ADD Spacing ft Spacing Collection kBTU/min Pressure gal/min/ft2 gal/min/ft2
Orientation Apparatus (m) ft (m) Pans ft (m) (MW) psi (bar) (mm/min) (mm/min)
- - 3.5 0 12 0.13 0.12
1
- - (1.1) (0) (0.8) (5.3) (4.9)
- - 10 28 12 0.05 0.03
1
- - (3.1) (0.5) (0.8) (2.0) (1.2)
16 - 3.5 0 12 0.10 0.10
2
(4.9) - (1.1) (0) (0.8) (4.1) (4.1)
Upright
16 - 10 62 12 0.08 0.05
2
(4.9) - (3.1) (1.1) (0.8) (3.3) (2.0)
16 16 3.5 0 12 0.13 0.11
4
(4.9) (4.9) (1.1) (0) (0.8) (5.3) (4.5)
16 16 10 85 12 0.11 0.13
4
(4.9) (4.9) (3.1) (1.5) (0.8) (4.5) (5.3)
- - 3.5 0 12 0.11 0.05
1
- - (1.1) (0) (0.8) (4.5) (2.0)
- - 10 28 12 0.02 0.02
1
- - (3.1) (0.5) (0.8) (0.8) (0.8)
16 - 3.5 0 12 0.12 0.12
2
(4.9) - (1.1) (0) (0.8) (4.9) (4.9)
Pendent
16 - 10 62 12 0.06 0.08
2
(4.9) - (3.1) (1.1) (0.8) (2.4) (3.3)
16 16 3.5 0 12 0.16 0.12
4
(4.9) (4.9) (1.1) (0) (0.8) (6.5) (4.9)
16 16 10 85 12 0.13 0.14
4
(4.9) (4.9) (3.1) (1.5) (0.8) (5.3) (5.7)

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Table 4.35.1b. ADD Measurements for K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 – 3 Sprinklers
Number of Ceiling Freeburn Center Pan Pre-Wetting
Sprinklers Clearance to Conv. Heat Area Average Area Average
Centered Sprinkler Pipe Water Release Density Density
Sprinkler Over the ADD Spacing ft Spacing ft Collection kBTU/min Pressure gal/min/ft2 gal/min/ft2
Orientation Apparatus (m) (m) Pans ft (m) (MW) psi (bar) (mm/min) (mm/min)
- - 3.5 0 18 0.16 0.14
1
- - (1.1) (0) (1.3) (6.5) (5.7)
- - 10 28 18 0.06 0.05
1
- - (3.1) (0.5) (1.3) (2.4) (2.0)
20 - 3.5 0 18 0.12 0.07
2
(6.1) - (1.1) (0) (1.3) (4.9) (2.9)
Upright
20 - 10 74 18 0.11 0.06
2
(6.1) - (3.1) (1.3) (1.3) (4.5) (2.4)
20 20 3.5 0 18 0.15 0.07
4
(6.1) (6.1) (1.1) (0) (1.3) (6.1) (2.9)
20 20 10 97 18 0.15 0.12
4
(6.1) (6.1) (3.1) (1.7) (1.3) (6.1) (4.9)
- - 3.5 0 18 0.10 0.05
1
- - (1.1) (0) (1.3) (4.1) (2.0)
- - 10 28 18 0.02 0.02
1
- - (3.1) (0.5) (1.3) (0.8) (0.8)
20 - 3.5 0 18 0.10 0.16
2
(6.1) - (1.1) (0) (1.3) (4.1) (6.5)
Pendent
20 - 10 74 18 0.06 0.07
2
(6.1) - (3.1) (1.3) (1.3) (2.4) (2.9)
20 20 3.5 0 18 0.13 0.14
4
(6.1) (6.1) (1.1) (0) (1.3) (5.3) (5.7)
20 20 10 97 18 0.18 0.14
4
(6.1) (6.1) (3.1) (1.7) (1.3) (7.3) (5.7)

4.35.2 Tests/Verification
Actual Delivered Density (ADD) and Pre-Wetting Density (PWD) measurements shall be taken
using the test apparatus shown in Figures D-19 and D-20. The ADD/PWD apparatus shall consist
of two major components: a fire source and a simulated commodity. The fire source shall consist
of a number of spray nozzles equally spaced on the circumference of a circle. Heptane shall be
used as the fuel for the fire. Approximately 6 in. (152 mm) below the fire source shall be an array
of collection pans representing a simulated commodity.
The center section of the array shall approximate the geometry and size of a single tier rack-
storage commodity of two pallet loads deep by two pallet loads wide, with a 6 in. (15.2 cm) flue
space between each pallet. Sixteen square water collection pans, representing the top surface of the
commodity within the ignition area, shall collect water that would normally reach the
commodity’s top surface. Four additional pans, representing the flue spaces between pallet loads
of commodity, shall collect water that would normally be delivered to the flue spaces.
At each end of the center section of the array, a set of Pre-Wetting Density (PWD) pans shall be
positioned. Each set of pans shall approximate the geometry and size of one-half of one tier of
rack-storage commodity (two pallet loads deep by one pallet load wide), with a 6 in. (15.2 cm)
flue space between adjacent pallets. At each end of the center section, eight square collection pans,
representing the commodity just beyond the area of ignition, shall collect water that would

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normally reach the top surface of the adjacent commodity. Three rectangular pans at each end,
representing the flue spaces between pallet loads, shall collect water that would normally be
delivered to the adjacent flue spaces.
A flat horizontal ceiling with minimum dimensions of 36.5 x 33.5 ft (11.13 x 10.21 m) shall be
suspended above the apparatus. The test apparatus shall be located in a room of sufficient volume
to minimize the entrainment of additional water spray.
Open sprinklers shall be connected to nominal 2 in. sprinkler pipes under the suspended ceiling
via 2 in. x 2 in. x 3/4 in. nominal threaded tees, threadolet fittings with bushings, or a suitable
alternative. When connecting sprinklers having nominal 1/2 in. NPT threads to threaded tees,
nominal 3/4 to 1/2 in. reduction bushings shall be used. The frame arms of each sprinkler shall be
aligned parallel with the sprinkler pipe. The distance from the pipe centerline to ceiling shall be 12
in. (30 cm) for upright sprinklers. For pendent sprinklers tested at a clearance from the ceiling to
the top of the water collection pans of 3.5 ft (1.07 m), the distance from the pipe centerline to
ceiling shall be 2.5 in. (6.4 cm). For pendent sprinklers tested at a clearance from the ceiling to the
top of the water collection pans of 10 ft (3.05 m), the distance from the pipe centerline to ceiling
shall be 12 in. (30 cm). For all tests, the pipes shall be fed with water flowing from a single
direction.
Tests in which the clearance from the ceiling to the top of the water collection pans is 3.5 ft (1.07
m) shall be conducted without a fire. For other tests, prior to each measurement, the heptane spray
shall be ignited and the flow stabilized at a flow rate corresponding to the required heat release.
Once the fuel flow rate has been stabilized, water shall be discharged from the sprinklers. Water
collected by all pans is to be channeled to the collectors of the apparatus. Water shall be collected
until one or more collection buckets are filled, or for a minimum of 10 minutes, whichever occurs
first, for each test detailed in Section 4.35.1.
For all tests, measurements shall be recorded for up to five different sets of samples.
4.36 Actual Delivered Density (ADD) - K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinklers
4.36.1 Requirement
K19.6 (K280) pendent storage sprinklers shall be subjected to the tests in Table 4.36.1 as
described in Section 4.36.2 utilizing the FM Approvals ADD/PWD apparatus.
Results of these tests shall be used to determine the least favorable ignition location(s) for full
scale fire testing. The least favorable ignition scenario will be identified first by the lowest average
density collected in the center area. If this does not differentiate the scenarios significantly (by at
least 5 percent), consideration will be given to the average density collected in the pre-wetting area
as well. Equivalent tests conducted at pressures below the lowest and/or above the highest
specified pressure may be used in place of those specified in Section 4.36.2 if a clear pattern of
performance is demonstrated in such tests.

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Table 4.36.1 ADD Measurements for K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinklers
Number of
Sprinklers Ceiling Freeburn
Centered Clearance to Conv. Heat
Over the Sprinkler Water Release
ADD Spacing ft Pipe Spacing Collection kBTU/min Pressure psi
Apparatus (m) ft (m) Pans ft (m) (MW) (bar)
10 - 6 0 25
2
(3.1) - (1.8) (0) (1.7)
10 - 6 0 16
2
(3.1) - (1.8) (0) (1.1)
10 - 6 114 25
2
(3.1) - (1.8) (2) (1.7)
10 - 6 114 16
2
(3.1) - (1.8) (2) (1.1)
10 10 6 0 25
4
(3.1) (3.1) (1.8) (0) (1.7)
10 10 6 0 16
4
(3.1) (3.1) (1.8) (0) (1.1)
10 10 6 114 25
4
(3.1) (3.1) (1.8) (2) (1.7)
10 10 6 114 16
4
(3.1) (3.1) (1.8) (2) (1.1)
4.36.2 Tests/Verification
Actual Delivered Density (ADD) and Pre-Wetting Density (PWD) measurements shall be taken
using the test apparatus shown in Figures D-19 and D-20. The ADD/PWD apparatus shall consist
of two major components: a fire source and a simulated commodity. The fire source shall consist
of a number of spray nozzles equally spaced on the circumference of a circle. Heptane shall be
used as the fuel for the fire. Approximately 6 in. (152 mm) below the fire source shall be an array
of collection pans representing a simulated commodity.
The center section of the array shall approximate the geometry and size of a single tier rack-
storage commodity of two pallet loads deep by two pallet loads wide, with a 6 in. (15.2 cm) flue
space between each pallet. Sixteen square water collection pans, representing the top surface of the
commodity within the ignition area, shall collect water that would normally reach the
commodity’s top surface. Four additional pans, representing the flue spaces between pallet loads
of commodity, shall collect water that would normally be delivered to the flue spaces.
At each end of the center section of the array, a set of Pre-Wetting Density (PWD) pans shall be
positioned. Each set of pans shall approximate the geometry and size of one-half of one tier of
rack-storage commodity (two pallet loads deep by one pallet load wide), with a 6 in. (15.2 cm)
flue space between adjacent pallets. At each end of the center section, eight square collection pans,
representing the commodity just beyond the area of ignition, shall collect water that would
normally reach the top surface of the adjacent commodity. Three rectangular pans at each end,
representing the flue spaces between pallet loads, shall collect water that would normally be
delivered to the adjacent flue spaces.
A flat horizontal ceiling with minimum dimensions of 36.5 x 33.5 ft (11.13 x 10.21 m) shall be
suspended above the apparatus. The test apparatus shall be located in a room of sufficient volume
to minimize the entrainment of additional water spray.
Open sprinklers shall be connected to nominal 2.5 in. sprinkler pipes under the suspended ceiling
via 2.5 in. x 2.5 in. x 1 in. nominal threaded tees, threadolet fittings with bushings, or a suitable
alternative. The frame arms of each sprinkler shall be aligned parallel with the sprinkler pipe. The
piping shall be positioned such that the distance from the ceiling to the geometric center of the

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heat responsive element of the sprinkler is 12 in. (30 cm) for standard response sprinklers and 13
in. (33 cm) for quick response sprinklers. For all tests, the pipes shall be fed with water flowing
from a single direction.
For tests conducted with a fire, prior to each measurement, the heptane spray shall be ignited and
the flow stabilized at a flow rate corresponding to the required heat release. Once the fuel flow rate
has been stabilized, water shall be discharged from the sprinklers. Water collected by all pans is to
be channeled to the collectors of the apparatus. Water shall be collected until one or more
collection buckets are filled, or for a minimum of 10 minutes, whichever occurs first, for each test
detailed in Section 4.36.1.
For all tests, measurements shall be recorded for up to five different sets of samples.
4.37 Actual Delivered Density (ADD) - K25.2 (K360) Storage Sprinklers
4.37.1 Requirement
K25.2 (K360) storage sprinklers shall be subjected to the tests in Table 4.37.1 as described in
Section 4.37.2 utilizing the FM Approvals ADD/PWD apparatus.
Results of these tests shall be used only to determine the least favorable ignition location(s) for
full scale fire testing. Minimum collection requirements are not specified. The least favorable
ignition scenario will be identified first by the lowest average density collected in the center area.
If this does not differentiate the scenarios significantly (by at least 5 percent), consideration will be
given to the average density collected in the pre-wetting area as well. Equivalent tests conducted at
pressures below the lowest and/or above the highest specified pressure may be used in place of
those specified in Table 4.37.1 if a clear pattern of performance is demonstrated in such tests.
Table 4.37.1. ADD Measurements for K25.2 (K360) Storage Sprinklers
Sprinkler Number of Ceiling
Nominal Sprinklers Clearance to Freeburn
Discharge Centered Water Convective
Coefficient Over the Sprinkler Collection Heat Release Direction
(gal/min/ Response ADD Spacing Pipe Spacing Pans kBTU/min Pressure psi of Feed
(psi)1/2) Rating Orientation Apparatus ft (m) ft (m) ft (m) (MW) (bar) Flow
12 - 6 150 20
2 Double
(3.7) - (1.8) (2.6) (1.4)
25.2 Standard Upright
12 8 6 170 20
4 Double
(3.7) (2.4) (1.8) (3.0) (1.4)
12 - 6 150 15
2 Double
(3.7) - (1.8) (2.6) (1.0)
25.2 Standard Pendent
12 8 6 170 15
4 Double
(3.7) (2.4) (1.8) (3.0) (1.0)
EC 14 - 6 150 30
2 Double
Upright (4.3) - (1.8) (2.6) (2.1)
25.2 Quick
and 14 14 6 170 30
Pendent 4 Double
(4.3) (4.3) (1.8) (3.0) (2.1)

4.37.2 Tests/Verification
Actual Delivered Density (ADD) and Pre-Wetting Density (PWD) measurements shall be taken
using the test apparatus shown in Figures D-19 and D-20. The ADD/PWD apparatus shall consist
of two major components: a fire source and a simulated commodity. The fire source shall consist
of a number of spray nozzles equally spaced on the circumference of a circle. Heptane shall be
used as the fuel for the fire. Approximately 6 in. (152 mm) below the fire source shall be an array
of collection pans representing a simulated commodity.
The center section of the array shall approximate the geometry and size of a single tier rack-
storage commodity of two pallet loads deep by two pallet loads wide, with a 6 in. (15.2 cm) flue

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space between each pallet. Sixteen square water collection pans, representing the top surface of the
commodity within the ignition area, shall collect water that would normally reach the
commodity’s top surface. Four additional pans, representing the flue spaces between pallet loads
of commodity, shall collect water that would normally be delivered to the flue spaces.
At each end of the center section of the array, a set of Pre-Wetting Density (PWD) pans shall be
positioned. Each set of pans shall approximate the geometry and size of one-half of one tier of
rack-storage commodity (two pallet loads deep by one pallet load wide), with a 6 in. (15.2 cm)
flue space between adjacent pallets. At each end of the center section, eight square collection pans,
representing the commodity just beyond the area of ignition, shall collect water that would
normally reach the top surface of the adjacent commodity. Three rectangular pans at each end,
representing the flue spaces between pallet loads, shall collect water that would normally be
delivered to the adjacent flue spaces.
A flat horizontal ceiling with minimum dimensions of 36.5 x 33.5 ft (11.13 x 10.21 m) shall be
suspended above the apparatus. The test apparatus shall be located in a room of sufficient volume
to minimize the entrainment of additional water spray.
For K25.2 (K360) sprinklers, open sprinklers shall be connected to nominal 2.5 in. sprinkler pipes
under the suspended ceiling via 2.5 in. x 2.5 in. x 1 in. nominal threaded tees, threadolet fittings
with bushings, or a suitable alternative. Sprinklers having larger orifice sizes shall be installed on
appropriately sized pipe. The frame arms of each sprinkler shall be aligned parallel with the
sprinkler pipe. The piping shall be positioned such that the distance from the ceiling to the
geometric center of the heat responsive element of the sprinkler is 12 in. (30 cm) for standard
response sprinklers and 13 in. (33 cm) for quick response sprinklers. For all tests, the pipes shall
be fed with water flowing from both directions (double feed).
Prior to each measurement, the heptane spray shall be ignited and stabilized at a flow rate
corresponding to the required heat release. Once the fuel flow rate has been stabilized, water shall
be discharged from the sprinklers. Water collected by all pans is to be channeled to the collectors
of the apparatus. Water shall be collected until one or more collection buckets are filled, or for a
minimum of 10 minutes, whichever occurs first, for each test detailed in Section 4.37.1.
For all tests, measurements shall be recorded for up to five different sets of samples.
4.38 Fire - Standard Crib
4.38.1 Requirement
Standard coverage K5.6 (K80) and K8.0 (K115) upright and pendent sprinklers shall be subjected
to at least the "centered between four sprinklers" fire test described in Section 4.38.2. However,
fire tests on other types of sprinklers, or an alternate fire source and/or location, may be required at
the sole discretion of FM Approvals.
NOTE: Sprinklers intended only for protection of HC-1 occupancies, such as standard coverage
K2.8 (K40) sprinklers and K5.6 (K80) sidewall sprinklers, are not fire tested.
The sprinklers shall be capable of controlling a fire within specified temperature and crib weight
loss limits.
All of the following requirements shall be met when the sprinklers are tested utilizing a crib
centrally located between four sprinklers, with a flow rate per sprinkler of 25 gal/min (95 L/min):
A. The air temperature at the thermocouple locations shall be reduced to less than 530°F (277°C)
above ambient within 6 minutes after ignition.
B. The mean air temperature at the thermocouple location shall not exceed 530°F (277°C) above
ambient during the remaining 24 minutes of the test.
C. The air temperature at any thermocouple shall not exceed 530°F (277°C) above ambient for any
continuous 3 minute period during the remaining 24 minutes of the test.

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D. After the 30-minute test period, the weight loss of the crib shall not exceed 20 percent. Crib
weight loss shall be determined on the basis of bone-dry weight (zero percent moisture content)
before and after the test.
4.38.2 Tests/Verification
A wood crib weighing approximately 350 lb (160 kg), constructed of saw-finished spruce (Picea
Excelsa) or fir (Abies Lasioscapa or Pseudotsuga menziesii) or equivalent lumber as shown in
Figure D-21, shall be conditioned and weighed prior to the test. Moisture content shall be
measured prior to the test and shall not exceed an average of 10 percent.
A. Sprinklers shall be installed over the wood crib on 10 ft x 10 ft (3.05 m x 3.05 m) spacing as
described in Figures D-22 and D-23. Upright sprinklers shall be installed with their deflectors 10
in. ± 4 in. (250 mm ± 100 mm) from the ceiling, directly into nominal 2 in. tees on nominal 2 in.
diameter schedule 40 pipe. Pendent, recessed, flush and concealed sprinklers shall be installed into
the appropriately sized coupling on nominal 1 in. diameter drops from nominal 2 in. diameter
schedule 40 pipe. For recessed, flush and concealed type sprinklers, a false ceiling shall be used to
simulate actual installation. Sprinklers having exposed deflectors shall be installed with their
deflectors located 7.5 ft (2.3 m) from the top of the crib. For flush and concealed type sprinklers,
the false ceiling surface shall be located 7.5 ft (2.3 m) from the top of the crib. Sprinkler frame
arms or deflector support pins shall be orientated parallel to the piping whenever possible. The test
shall be conducted using sprinklers with a nominal temperature rating between 135 and 170°F (57
and 70°C) so as to permit operation of all sprinklers within 70 seconds after ignition.
B. A continuous flow of n-heptane shall be discharged at the rate of 1 gal/min (3.785 L/min) through
a spray nozzle with a pattern having a cone angle of approximately 75 degrees when atomizing the
fuel. The nozzle shall be a Delvan WS-15 industrial nozzle produced by Delvan Manufacturing
Co., West Des Moines, IA 50265 USA, or equivalent. The n-heptane shall be kept continuously
ignited for a period of 30 minutes by a pilot flame or igniter placed within 2 in. (50 mm) of the
spray nozzle.
C. Ceiling temperature over the crib shall be measured utilizing 4 thermocouples spaced 1 in. (25
mm) apart and located approximately 2 in. (50 mm) below the ceiling. The thermocouples shall be
positioned centrally with respect to the sprinklers, with their tips turned upward to prevent the
formation of water droplets during testing.
D. Following the test, the crib shall be conditioned for at least 4 days or until the moisture content at
any location is less than 8 percent. The crib shall then be weighed. The actual crib weight loss
shall be determined from the pre- and post-test weights, corrected for moisture content.
4.39 Fire Tests - K11.2 (K160) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers
4.39.1 Requirement
K11.2 (K160) upright and pendent storage sprinklers shall perform satisfactorily in full-scale fire
test scenarios as detailed in Section 4.39.2 within the limits stated in Table 4.39.1.

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Table 4.39.1. K11.2 (K160) Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Limits

Test A B
1200/1000 1200/1000
Peak/Maximum One Minute Average
(649/538) (649/538)
Steel Temperature; °F (°C)

Aisle Jump/Fire Spread See below* See below*

Equivalent Maximum Number
20 10
of Pallet Loads Consumed
Maximum Number of
20 20
Sprinklers to Operate**
* Fire spread must be confined to the length of the main array. Fire spread to the ends of
the main array or to a target array is not permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.

4.39.2 Tests/Verification
The tests detailed in this section shall be conducted in an indoor fire test facility with an adjustable
ceiling. Sprinklers shall be installed at the spacing indicated in Table 4.39.2, on nominal 2 in.
diameter Schedule 40 sprinkler pipes. The pipes shall be oriented perpendicular to the length of
the test array and positioned such that the sprinklers are centered about the geometric center of the
ceiling. Ignition shall be accomplished using an FM Global standard igniter and shall take place at
the bottom of the first tier of the test array, located as described in the appropriate figure listed in
Table 4.39.2. Temperatures shall be monitored by thermocouples located at the ceiling. Two-way,
42 in. x 42 in. x 5 in. (107 cm x 107 cm x 12.7 cm), slatted hardwood pallets shall support the
commodity.
Table 4.39.2. K11.2 (K160) Storage Sprinklers Test Scenarios
Test A B
Storage Type Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack
Cartoned
Fuel (FM Global Standard Commodity) Class 2
Unexpanded Plastic
Test Array see Figure D-24 see Figure D-25
Nominal Array Height, 19 14
ft (m) (5.8) (4.3)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 30 (9.1) 25 (7.6)
Nominal Clearance-to-ceiling 11 11
ft (m) (3.4) (3.4)
Between Below
Ignition
4 sprinklers 1 sprinkler
Sprinkler Nominal 160 160
Temperature Rating, °F(°C) (70) (70)
Sprinkler Spacing 10 x 10 8 x 10
ft x ft (m x m) (3.0 x 3.0) (2.4 x 3.0)
7 (178) upright 7 (178) upright
Deflector to Ceiling, in. (mm)
12 (305) pendent 12 (305) pendent
Sprinkler Thermal Sensitivity Standard Response Standard Response
11 19
Water Pressure, psi (bar)
(0.8) (1.3)
Test Duration (min) 30 30

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4.40 Fire Tests - K14.0 (K200) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers
4.40.1 Requirement
K14.0 (K200) upright and pendent storage sprinklers shall perform satisfactorily in full-scale fire
test scenarios as detailed in Section 4.40.2 within the limits stated in Table 4.40.1.
Table 4.40.1. K14.0 (K200) Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Limits
Test A B C
Peak/Maximum One Minute Average 1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000
Steel Temperature, °F (°C) (649/538) (649/538) (649/538)
Aisle Jump/Fire Spread See below* See below* See below*
Equivalent Maximum Number
20 20 10
of Pallet Loads Consumed
Maximum Number of
20 20 20
Sprinklers to Operate**
* Fire spread must be confined to the length of the main array. Fire spread to the ends of the main array or to
a target array is not permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.
4.40.2 Tests/Verification
The tests detailed in this section shall be conducted in an indoor fire test facility with an adjustable
ceiling. Sprinklers shall be installed at the spacing indicated in Table 4.40.2, on nominal 2 in.
diameter Schedule 40 sprinkler pipes. The pipes shall be oriented perpendicular to the length of
the test array and positioned such that the sprinklers are centered about the geometric center of the
ceiling. Ignition shall be accomplished using an FM Global standard igniter and shall take place at
the bottom of the first tier of the test array, located as described in the appropriate figure listed in
Table 4.40.2. Temperatures shall be monitored by thermocouples located at the ceiling. Two-way,
42 in. x 42 in. x 5 in. (107 cm x 107 cm x 12.7 cm), slatted hardwood pallets shall support the
commodity.
Table 4.40.2. K14.0 (K200) Storage Sprinkler Test Scenarios
Test A B C
Storage Type Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack Palletized
Cartoned Cartoned
Fuel (FM Global Standard Commodity) Class 2
Unexpanded Plastic Unexpanded Plastic
Test Array see Figure D-24 see Figure D-25 see Figure D-26
Nominal Array Height 19 14 15
ft (m) (5.8) (4.3) (4.6)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 30 (9.1) 25 (7.6) 25 (7.6)
Nominal Clearance-to-Ceiling, 11 11 10
ft (m) (3.4) (3.4) (3.05)
Ignition Between 4 Below Between 4
sprinklers 1 sprinkler sprinklers
Sprinkler Nominal Temperature Rating, 160 160 280
°F(°C) (70) (70) 138
Sprinkler Spacing 10 x 10 8 x 10 8 x 10
ft x ft (m x m) (3.0 x 3.0) (2.4 x 3.0) (2.4 x 3.0)
7 (178) upright 7 (178) upright 7 (178) upright
Deflector to Ceiling, in. (mm)
12 (305) pendent 12 (305) pendent 12 (305) pendent
Sprinkler Thermal Sensitivity Standard Response Standard Response Standard Response
7 12 12
Water Pressure, psi (bar)
(0.5) (0.8) (0.8)
Test Duration (min) 30 30 30

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4.41 Fire Tests - K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage Sprinklers for Protection of Hazard Categories 1 – 3
(HC-1 through HC-3)
4.41.1 Requirement
K14.0 (K200) extended coverage upright and pendent sprinklers for protection of hazard
categories 1 – 3 (HC-1 through HC-3) shall perform satisfactorily in full-scale fire test scenarios
as detailed in Section 4.41.2 within the limits stated in Table 4.41.1.
NOTE: There are no fire test requirements for K11.2 (K160) extended coverage hazard category
1 – 3 sprinklers.
Table 4.41.1. K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 – 3 Sprinkler Fire Test Limits
Test A B C
Peak/Maximum One Minute Average 1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000
Steel Temperature, °F(°C) (649/538) (649/538) (649/538)
Aisle Jump/Fire Spread See below* See below* See below*
Equivalent Maximum Number
4 4 4
of Pallet Loads Consumed
Maximum Number of
9 9 9
Sprinklers to Operate**
* Fire spread must be confined to the length of the main array. Fire spread to the ends of the main array or to a target
array is not permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.
4.41.2 Tests/Verification
The tests detailed in this section shall be conducted in an indoor fire test facility with an adjustable
ceiling positioned approximately 20 ft (6.1 m) from the floor. Sprinklers having a nominal
temperature rating of 160°F (70°C) shall be installed at the spacing indicated in Table 4.41.2, on
nominal 2 in. diameter Schedule 40 sprinkler pipes. The fire test array, which is further detailed in
Figure D-27, shall be oriented such that the longitudinal flue space is parallel to the sprinkler
branch lines and such that the sprinklers are centered about the geometric center of the double-row
rack. Ignition shall be accomplished using an FM Global standard igniter and shall take place at
the bottom of the first tier, at the intersection of the longitudinal and center transverse flue spaces.
Temperatures shall be monitored by thermocouples located at the ceiling. Two-way, 42 in. x 42 in.
x 5 in. (107 cm x 107 cm x 12.7 cm), slatted hardwood pallets placed in metal storage racks shall
support the commodity.

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Table 4.41.2. K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 – 3 Sprinkler Test Scenarios
Test A B C
Storage Type Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack
Fuel (FM Global Standard Commodity) Class 2 Class 2 Class 2
Main (Ignition) Array, number of pallets,
2x6x2 2x6x2 2x4x2
(wide x long x high)
Target Arrays, number of pallets each,
1x4x2 1x4x2 1x4x2
(wide x long x high)
Nominal Array Height 9 9 9
ft (m) (2.7) (2.7) (2.7)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 20 (6.1) 20 (6.1) 20 (6.1)
Nominal Clearance-to-Ceiling 11 11 11
ft (m) (3.4) (3.4) (3.4)
Below Between
Ignition Below 1 sprinkler
1 sprinkler 2 sprinklers
Sprinkler Spacing 20 x 20 20 x 20 10 x 10
ft x ft (m x m) (6.1 x 6.1) (6.1 x 6.1) (3.0 x 3.0)
7 (178) upright 7 (178) upright 7 (178) upright
Deflector to Ceiling, in. (mm)
9 (230) pendent 9 (230) pendent 9 (230) pendent
Sprinkler Thermal Sensitivity Quick Response Quick Response Quick Response
Water Pressure, psi (bar) 18 (1.2) 18 (1.2) 18 (1.2)
Test Duration (min) 30 30 30

4.42 Fire Tests - K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall Sprinklers
4.42.1 Requirement
K14.0 (K200) non-storage extended coverage horizontal sidewall sprinklers shall perform
satisfactorily in full-scale fire test scenarios as detailed in Section 4.42.2 within the limits stated in
Tables 4.42.1a-c.
A. Screening Tests - In order to define the ignition configuration which results in the most
challenging fire scenario, three screening tests shall be conducted with different fuel array
positions relative to the sprinkler locations. The sprinklers shall perform satisfactorily in the three
test scenarios detailed in Table 4.42.2a within the limits stated in Table 4.42.1a. The scenario
which results in the most challenging fire will then be used in the three application fire tests.
Table 4.42.1a. K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage
Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler Screening Fire Test Limits
Test A B C
Peak/Maximum One Minute 1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000
Average Steel Temperature (649/538) (649/538) (649/538)
°F (°C)
Damage See below* See below* See below*
Maximum Number of
6 6 6
Sprinklers to Operate**
* Fire spread must be confined to the length of the array. Fire spread to the ends of the array is not permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.

B. Obstruction Tests - Two full scale fire tests shall be conducted with the sprinkler distribution
pattern partially blocked by a mockup representing the permissible size and clearance limits for
conduit obstructions. The sprinklers shall perform satisfactorily in the two test scenarios detailed
in Table 4.42.2b within the limits stated in Table 4.42.1b.

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Table 4.42.1b. K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage

Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler Obstruction Fire Test Limits
Test A B
1200/1000 1200/1000
Peak/Maximum One Minute Average Steel
(649/538) (649/538)
Temperature, °F (°C)
Damage See below* See below*
Maximum Number of
4 4
Sprinklers to Operate**
* Fire spread must be confined to the length of the array. Fire spread to the ends of the array is not permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.

C. Application Tests - The ignition configuration which results in the most challenging fire scenario,
as defined by the results of the screening tests detailed in Table 4.42.2a, shall be used in three full-
scale application fire tests. The sprinklers shall perform satisfactorily in the three test scenarios
detailed in Table 4.42.2c within the limits stated in Table 4.42.1c.
Table 4.42.1c. K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage
Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler Application Fire Test Limits
Test A B C
Peak/Maximum One Minute 1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000
Average Steel Temperature (649/538) (649/538) (649/538)
°F (°C)
Damage See below* See below* See below*
Maximum Number of
8 8 8
Sprinklers to Operate**
1 The orientation and ignition configuration of the commodity shall be determined by the screening test
which results in the most challenging fire scenario (see Section 4.42.1A)
* Fire spread must be confined to the length of the array. Fire spread to the ends of the array is not
permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.

4.42.2 Tests/Verification
The tests detailed in this section shall be conducted in a metal building test structure erected
within an indoor fire test facility having a ceiling to floor distance of approximately 40 ft (12.2 m).
The metal building shall measure 60 ft (18.3 m) long by 50 ft (15.2 m) wide by 32 ft (9.8 m) high
at the roof apex. The wall height at the eaves shall measure 30 ft (9.1 m), resulting in a roof slope
of 1 in./12 in. (25 mm/305 mm), or 4.8 degrees. The roof shall be supported by three I-beam
ceiling truss members, spaced 25 ft (7.6 m) apart, and supported at each end by an upright I-beam
column. This arrangement shall create two 25 ft (7.6 m) wide interior bays with a 5 ft (1.52 m)
overhang at each end. The ceiling trusses shall be 19.1 in. (.48 m) deep at the eaves and 43.1 in.
(1.1 m) deep at the roof peak. The 50 ft (15.2 m) wide ends of the building shall remain open to
the test facility.
Sprinklers having a nominal temperature rating of 160°F (70°C) shall be connected to nominal 2.5
in. sprinkler branch line pipes via 2.5 in. x 2.5 in. x 1 in. nominal threaded tees with a nominal 1
in. x ¾ in. reducing bushing, threadolet fittings with bushings, or a suitable alternative. The branch
lines shall be installed on each side of the three ceiling support I-beams, supported by brackets
attached to the top of the ceiling I-beams using special hangers intended for this purpose. The tees
shall be located at distances of 7 ft (2.1 m), 21 ft (6.4 m), 29 ft (8.8 m) and 43 ft (13.1 m) from one
of the 60 ft (18.3 m) long walls, resulting in a sprinkler spacing of 14 ft (4.3 m). The branch lines
shall be hung such that the sprinkler deflectors are 14 in. (0.36 m) down from the underside of the

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roof. The deflector shelf of each sprinkler shall be aligned parallel to the floor of the test facility.
The pipes shall be fed with water flowing from nominal 3 in. risers extending up each side of the
I-beam columns to the eaves. The sprinkler installation positions and sprinkler system layout are
further detailed in Figures D-28 and D-29.
Ignition of the commodity shall take place at the bottom of the first tier, at the intersection of the
longitudinal and center transverse flue spaces. Two-way, 42 in. x 42 in. x 5 in., slatted hardwood
pallets placed in metal storage racks shall support the commodity. Temperatures shall be
monitored by thermocouples located at the ceiling. The fire test array is further detailed in Figure
D-30.
A. Screening Tests - Three screening tests shall be conducted with fuel array positions relative to the
location of ceiling sprinklers as detailed in Table 4.42.2a. The scenario which results in the most
challenging fire shall then be used in all subsequent application fire tests.
Table 4.42.2a. K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage
Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler Test Scenarios – Screening Tests
Test A B C
Storage Type Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack
Fuel (FM Global Standard
Class 2 Class 2 Class 2
Commodity)
Test Description/ Longitudinal flue Center transverse flue
5 ft (1.5 m) from the
Commodity Location parallel to and parallel to and
wall perpendicular to
directly beneath the directly beneath
beams (See Figure D-
center beam. (See center beam (See
31)
Figure D-31) Figure D-31)
Test Array, number of pallets,
2x4x2 2x4x2 2x4x2
(wide x long x high)
Nominal Array Height 9 9 9
ft (m) (2.7) (2.7) (2.7)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 32 (9.7) 32 (9.7) 32 (9.7)
Nominal Clearance-to-Ceiling, 23 23 23
ft (m) (7.0) (7.0) (7.0)
Ignition Between 2 sprinklers Centered between 2 Centered below
along adjacent wall sprinklers 1 sprinkler
Sprinkler Spacing 14 x 25 14 x 25 14 x 25
ft x ft (m x m) (4.3 x 7.6) (4.3 x 7.6) (4.3 x 7.6)
Deflector to Ceiling, in. (mm)
14 (356) 14 (356) 14 (356)
(see Fig D-29)
Sprinkler Thermal Sensitivity Quick Response Quick Response Quick Response
Water Pressure, 7 7 7
psi (bar) (0.5) (0.5) (0.5)
Test Duration (min) 30 30 30
B. Obstruction Tests -Two obstruction tests shall be conducted with the sprinkler distribution pattern
partially blocked by a mockup representing the maximum size and minimum clearance limits for
conduit obstructions as detailed in Table 4.42.2b.

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Table 4.42.2b. K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage

Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler Test Scenarios – Obstruction Tests
Test A B
Storage Type Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack
Fuel (FM Global Standard
Class 2 Class 2
Commodity)
Test Description 2 x 2 ft (0.61 x 0.61 m) 9 x 9 in. (0.23 x 0.23 m)
obstruction obstruction
Test Array, number of pallets,
2x4x2 2x4x2
(wide x long x high)
Commodity Location Center of array 5 ft (1.5 m) from Center of array 5 ft (1.5 m) from
the wall perpendicular to beams the wall perpendicular to beams
(See Figure D-32) (See Figure D-32)
Nominal Array Height ft (m) 9 9
(2.7) (2.7)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 32 (9.7) 32 (9.7)
Nominal Clearance-to-Ceiling, 23 23
ft (m) (7.0) (7.0)
Obstruction Location 3 ft (0.91 m) below and 7.42 ft 12 in. (0.30 m) below and 34 in.
(2.26 m) out from sprinkler (0.86 m) out from sprinkler
deflector (See Figure D-32) deflector (See Figure D-32)
Ignition Between 2 sprinklers along Between 2 sprinklers along
adjacent wall adjacent wall

Sprinkler Spacing 14 x 25 14 x 25
ft x ft (m x m) (4.3 x 7.6) (4.3 x 7.6)
Deflector to Ceiling, in. (mm)
14 (356) 14 (356)
(see Fig D-29)
Sprinkler Thermal Sensitivity Quick Response Quick Response
Water Pressure, psi (bar) 7 (0.5) 7 (0.5)
Test Duration (min) 30 30

C. Application Tests - Three tests shall be conducted with a fuel array position relative to the location
of ceiling sprinklers which resulted in the most challenging fire as determined by the screening
tests. The tests shall be conducted as detailed in Table 4.42.2c.

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Table 4.42.2c. K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage

Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler Test Scenarios – Application Tests
Test A B C
Storage Type Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack
Fuel (FM Global Standard Cartoned Expanded Cartoned Expanded Uncartoned Expanded
Commodity) Plastic Plastic Plastic
Test Array, number of pallets,
2x4x1 2x4x2 2x4x1
(wide x long x high)
Nominal Array Height 4 9 4
ft (m) (1.2) (2.7) (1.2)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 32 (9.7) 32 (9.7) 32 (9.7)
Nominal Clearance-to-Ceiling 28 23 23
ft (m) (8.5) (7.0) (7.0)
Ignition Worst case1 Worst case1 Worst case1
Sprinkler Spacing 14 x 25 14 x 25 14 x 25
ft x ft (m x m) (4.3 x 7.6) (4.3 x 7.6) (4.3 x 7.6)
Deflector to Ceiling, in. (mm)
14 (356) 14 (356) 14 (356)
(see Fig D-29)
Sprinkler Thermal Sensitivity Quick Response Quick Response Quick Response
Water Pressure, psi (bar) 7 (0.5) 25 (1.7) 14 (1.0)
Test Duration (min) 30 30 30
1 The orientation and ignition configuration of the commodity shall be determined by the screening test
which results in the most challenging fire scenario (see Section 4.42.1A)

4.43 Fire Tests - K16.8 (K240) Upright Storage Sprinklers

4.43.1 Requirement
K16.8 (K240) upright storage sprinklers shall perform satisfactorily in full-scale fire test scenarios
as detailed in Section 4.43.2 within the limits stated in Table 4.43.1.
Table 4.43.1. K16.8 (K240) Upright Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Limits
Test A B
Peak/Maximum One Minute Average 1200/1000 1200/1000
Steel Temperature, °F (°C) (649/538) (649/538)
Aisle Jump/Fire Spread See below* See below*
Equivalent Maximum Number
10 10
of Pallet Loads Consumed
Maximum Number of
15 15
Sprinklers to Operate**
* Fire spread must be confined to the lengths of the main array and target array. Fire spread to the ends of either
array or to the back of the target array is not permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.

4.43.2 Tests/Verification
The tests detailed in this section shall be conducted in an indoor fire test facility with an adjustable
ceiling. Sprinklers having a nominal temperature rating of 160°F (70°C) shall be installed at the
spacing indicated in Table 4.43.2, on nominal 2 in. diameter Schedule 40 sprinkler pipes. The
pipes shall be oriented perpendicular to the length of the test array and positioned such that the
sprinklers are centered about the geometric center of the ceiling. Ignition shall be accomplished
using an FM Global standard igniter and shall take place at the bottom of the first tier at the

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geometric center of the double row rack. Temperatures shall be monitored by thermocouples
located at the ceiling. Two-way, 42 in. x 42 in. x 5 in. (107 cm x 107 cm x 12.7 cm), slatted
hardwood pallets placed in metal storage racks support the commodity.
Table 4.43.2. K16.8 (K240) Upright Storage Sprinkler Test Scenarios
Test A B
Storage Type Double-Row Rack Double-Row Rack
Cartoned Unexpanded Cartoned Unexpanded
Fuel (FM Global Standard Commodity)
Plastic Plastic
Test Array see Figure D-33 see Figure D-34
Nominal Array Height 9 14
ft (m) (2.7) (4.3)
Nominal Clearance-to-Ceiling, 21 11
ft (m) (6.4) (3.4)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 30 (9.1) 25 (7.6)
Below Below
Ignition
1 sprinkler 1 sprinkler
Sprinkler Spacing 10 x 10 10 x 10
ft x ft (m x m) (3.0 x 3.0) (3.0 x 3.0)
Deflector to Ceiling, in. (mm) 7 (178) 7 (178)
Sprinkler Thermal Sensitivity Standard Response Standard Response
7 13
Water Pressure, psi (bar)
(0.5) (0.9)
Test Duration (min) 30 30

4.44 Fire Tests - K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinklers

4.44.1 Requirement
K19.6 (K280) pendent storage sprinklers with a nominal K-factor of 19.6 gal/min/(psi)1/2 shall
perform satisfactorily in full-scale fire test scenarios as detailed in Section 4.44.2 within the limits
stated in Table 4.44.1.
Table 4.44.1. K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Limits
Test A B C
Peak/Maximum One Minute Average 1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000
Steel Temperature; °F (°C) (649/538) (649/538) (649/538)
Aisle Jump/Fire Spread See below* See below* See below*
Maximum Number of Sprinklers to
10 8 8
Operate**
* Fire spread must be confined to the lengths of the main array and target array. Fire spread to the ends of either array
or to the back of the target array is not permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.

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Table 4.44.1. K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Limits (Continued)
Test D E F
Peak/Maximum One Minute Average 1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000
Steel Temperature; °F (°C) (649/538) (649/538) (649/538)
Aisle Jump/Fire Spread See below* See below* See below*
Maximum Number of Sprinklers to
13 11 11
Operate**
* Fire spread must be confined to the lengths of the main array and target array. Fire spread to the ends of either array
or to the back of the target array is not permitted.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.
4.44.2 Tests/Verification
The tests detailed in Table 4.44.2 shall be conducted in an indoor fire test facility with an
adjustable ceiling measuring 80 ft x 80 ft (24.4 m x 24.4 m). Sprinklers having a nominal
temperature rating of 160°F (70°C) shall be installed on nominal 2.5 in. diameter Schedule 40
sprinkler pipes at the spacing indicated. For tests having a sprinkler spacing of 8 x 10 ft (2.4 x 3.0
m), the pipes are spaced 10 ft (3.0 m) apart. For tests having a sprinkler spacing of 8 x 12 ft (2.4 x
3.7 m), the pipes are spaced 8 ft (2.4 m) apart.
The storage array shall consist of a main double row rack, 8 pallet loads long, and two single row
target racks, 4 pallet loads long, one on either side of the main rack, separated by an aisle space 4
ft (1.2 m) wide. The main rack shall be configured with rack uprights in the center transverse flue
space and shall be oriented such that the transverse flues are parallel to the sprinkler branch line
pipes. The main rack and both target racks shall be filled with the specified commodity, as shown
in the appropriate figure. Commodity moisture content shall be 6 percent ± 2 percent (dry basis).
Ignition shall take place in the center transverse flue space at the bottom of the first tier of the
main rack, offset 2 ft (0.6 m) from the geometric center of the rack. Ignition locations for tests C
and F shall be selected based on the lowest Actual Delivered Density (ADD) results at the
corresponding conditions. Temperatures shall be monitored by thermocouples located at the
ceiling.
Temperatures shall be monitored by thermocouples located at the ceiling. Two-way, 42 in. x 42 in.
x 5 in. (107 cm x 107 cm x 12.7 cm), slatted hardwood pallets placed in metal storage racks
support the commodity.

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Table 4.44.2. K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Scenarios
Test A B C
Storage Type Double Row Rack (See Double-Row Rack (See Double-Row Rack (See
Figure D-35) Figure D-35) Figure D-36)
Fuel (FM Global Cartoned Unexpanded Cartoned Unexpanded Cartoned Unexpanded
Standard Commodity) Plastic Plastic Plastic
Nominal Array Height
19 (5.8) 19 (5.8) 24 (7.3)
ft (m)
Nominal Ceiling
30 (9.1) 30 (9.1) 30 (9.1)
Height, ft (m)
Nominal Clearance-to-
11 (3.4) 11 (3.4) 6 (1.8)
Ceiling, ft (m)
Ignition Below Below Between 2 or 4
1 sprinkler 1 sprinkler sprinklers*
Sprinkler Spacing 8 x 10 10 x 10 8 x 12
ft x ft (m x m) (2.4 x 3.0) (3.0 x 3.0) (2.4 x 3.7)
Deflector to Ceiling, in.
12 (305) 12 (305) 12 (305)
(mm)
Water Pressure, psi 16 16 16
(bar) (1.1) (1.1) (1.1)

Test Duration (min) 30 30 30

* The ignition location for test C is based on worst-case scenario determined by ADD/PWD testing.
NOTE: if test A is deemed successful, and results in only one sprinkler operating, test B may be omitted at the
discretion of FM Approvals.

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Table 4.44.2. K19.6 (K280) Pendent Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Scenarios (Continued)
Test D E F
Storage Type Double Row Rack (See Double-Row Rack (See Double-Row Rack (See
Figure D-37) Figure D-37) Figure D-38)
Fuel (FM Global Cartoned Unexpanded Cartoned Unexpanded Cartoned Unexpanded
Standard Commodity) Plastic Plastic Plastic
Nominal Array Height
24 (7.3) 24 (7.3) 29 (8.8)
ft (m)
Nominal Ceiling
35 (10.7) 35 (10.7) 35 (10.7)
Height, ft (m)
Nominal Clearance-to-
11 (3.4) 11 (3.4) 6 (1.8)
Ceiling, ft (m)
Ignition Below Below Between 2 or 4
1 sprinkler 1 sprinkler sprinklers*
Sprinkler Spacing 8 x 10 10 x 10 8 x 12
ft x ft (m x m) (2.4 x 3.0) (3.0 x 3.0) (2.4 x 3.7)
Deflector to Ceiling, in.
12 (305) 12 (305) 12 (305)
(mm)
Water Pressure, psi 25 25 25
(bar) (1.7) (1.7) (1.7)

Test Duration (min) 30 30 30

* The ignition location for test F is based on worst-case scenario determined by ADD/PWD testing.
NOTE: if test D is deemed successful, and results in only one sprinkler operating, test E may be omitted at the
discretion of FM Approvals.

4.45 Fire Tests - (K25.2 (K360) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers)
4.45.1 Requirement
K25.2 (K360) upright and pendent storage sprinklers shall perform satisfactorily in full-scale fire test
scenarios as detailed in Section 4.45.2 within the limits stated in Table 4.45.1.

Table 4.45.1. K25.2 (K360) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Limits
Test A B C
Peak/Maximum One Minute Average 1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000
Steel Temperature °F (°C) (649/538) (649/538) (649/538)
Aisle Jump/Fire Spread See below* See below* See below*
Maximum Number of Sprinklers to
8 8 8
Operate**
* Fire spread must not extend beyond the last transverse flue to either side of ignition and must not
burn through the back side of either target array.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.

4.45.2 Tests/Verification
The tests detailed in Table 4.45.2 shall be conducted in an indoor fire test facility with an
adjustable ceiling measuring 80 ft x 80 ft (24.4 m x 24.4 m). Sprinklers having a nominal
temperature rating of 160°F (70°C) shall be installed on nominal 2.5 in. diameter Schedule 40
sprinkler pipes at the spacing indicated.

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The storage array shall consist of a main double row rack, 8 pallet loads long, and two single row
target racks, 4 pallet loads long, one on either side of the main rack, separated by an aisle space 4
ft (1.2 m) wide. The main rack shall be configured with rack uprights in the center transverse flue
space and shall be oriented such that the transverse flues are parallel to the sprinkler branch line
pipes. The main rack and both target racks shall be filled with the specified commodity, as shown
in the appropriate figure. Commodity moisture content shall be 6 percent ± 2 percent (dry basis).
Ignition shall take place in the center transverse flue space at the bottom of the first tier of the
main rack, offset 2 ft (0.6 m) from the geometric center of the rack. Ignition location for test A
shall be selected based on the lowest Actual Delivered Density (ADD) results at the corresponding
conditions. Temperatures shall be monitored by thermocouples located at the ceiling.
If test B is successfully completed with only a single sprinkler operating, test C may be omitted at
the sole discretion of FM Approvals.
Table 4.45.2. K25.2 (K360) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinkler Test Scenarios
Test A B C
Storage Type Double-Row Double-Row Double-Row
Rack Rack Rack
(Figure D-39) (Figure D-40) (Figure D-40)
Fuel (FM Global Standard Commodity) Cartoned Cartoned Cartoned
Unexpanded Unexpanded Unexpanded
Plastic Plastic Plastic
Nominal Array Height ft (m) 24 (7.3) 19 (5.8) 19 (5.8)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 30 (9.1) 30 (9.1) 30 (9.1)
Nominal Clearance-to-ceiling ft (m) 6 (1.8) 11 (3.4) 11 (3.4)
Ignition Between 2 or 4 Below 1 Below 1
sprinklers* sprinkler sprinkler
Sprinkler Spacing** 8 x 12 8x8 10 x 10
ft x ft (m x m) (2.4 x 3.7) (2.4 x 2.4) (3.0 x 3.0)
Heat Responsive Element to Ceiling, in.
12 (305) 12 (305) 12 (305)
(mm)
Water Pressure for Pendent, psi (bar) 15 (1.0) 15 (1.0) 15 (1.0)
Water Pressure for Upright, psi (bar) 20 (1.4) 20 (1.4) 20 (1.4)
Test Duration (min) 30 30 30
* The ignition location for test A is based on worst-case scenario determined by ADD/PWD testing.
** Sprinkler spacing = Distance between adjacent pipes x Distance between sprinklers on the same
pipe.

4.46 Fire Tests - K25.2EC (K360EC) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers
4.46.1 Requirement
K25.2EC (K360EC) extended coverage upright and pendent storage sprinklers shall perform
satisfactorily in full-scale fire test scenarios as detailed in Section 4.46.2 within the limits stated in
Table 4.46.1.

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Table 4.46.1. K25.2EC (K360EC) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinkler Fire Test Limits
Test A B C D
Peak/Maximum One Minute
1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000 1200/1000
Average Steel Temperature
(649/538) (649/538) (649/538) (649/538)
°F (°C)
Aisle Jump/Fire Spread See below* See below* See below* See below*
Maximum Number of
8 8 8 13
Sprinklers to Operate**
* Fire spread must not extend beyond the last transverse flue to either side of ignition and must not
burn through the back side of either target array.
** Sprinklers installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are not permitted to operate.

4.46.2 Tests/Verification
The tests detailed in Table 4.46.2 shall be conducted in an indoor fire test facility with an
adjustable ceiling measuring 80 ft x 80 ft (24.4 m x 24.4 m). Sprinklers having a nominal
temperature rating of 160°F (70°C) shall be installed on nominal 2.5 in. diameter Schedule 40
sprinkler pipes at the spacing indicated.
The storage array shall consist of a main double row rack, 8 pallet loads long, and two single row
target racks, 4 pallet loads long, one on either side of the main rack, separated by an aisle space 4
ft (1.2 m) wide. The main rack shall be configured with rack uprights in the center transverse flue
space and shall be oriented such that the transverse flues are parallel to the sprinkler branch line
pipes. The main rack and both target racks shall be filled with the specified commodity, as shown
in the appropriate figure. Commodity moisture content shall be 6 percent ± 2 percent (dry basis).
Ignition shall take place in the center transverse flue space at the bottom of the first tier of the
main rack, offset 2 ft (0.6 m) from the geometric center of the rack. Ignition locations for tests A
and D shall be selected based on the lowest Actual Delivered Density (ADD) results at the
corresponding conditions. Temperatures shall be monitored by thermocouples located at the
ceiling.
If test B is successfully completed with only a single sprinkler operating, test C may be omitted at
the sole discretion of FM Approvals.

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Table 4.46.2 K25.2EC (K360EC) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinkler Test Scenarios
Test A B C D***
Storage Type Double-Row Double-Row Double-Row Double-Row
Rack Rack Rack Rack
(Figure D-41) (Figure D-42) (Figure D-42) (Figure D-43)
Fuel (FM Global Standard Cartoned Cartoned Cartoned Cartoned
Commodity) Unexpanded Unexpanded Unexpanded Unexpanded
Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic
Nominal Array Height ft (m) 24 (7.3) 19 (5.8) 19 (5.8) 19 (5.8)
Nominal Ceiling Height, ft (m) 30 (9.1) 30 (9.1) 30 (9.1) 25 (7.6)
Nominal Clearance-to-ceiling ft
6 (1.8) 11 (3.4) 11 (3.4) 6 (1.8)
(m)
Ignition Between 2 or Below 1 Below 1 Between 2 or
4 sprinklers* sprinkler sprinkler 4 sprinklers*
Sprinkler Spacing** 14 x 14 10 x 10 14 x 14 14 x 14
ft x ft (m x m) (4.3 x 4.3) (3.0 x 3.0) (4.3 x 4.3) (4.3 x 4.3)
Heat Responsive Element to
12 (305) 12 (305) 12 (305) 12 (305)
Ceiling, in. (mm)
Water Pressure, psi (bar) 30 (2.0) 30 (2.0) 30 (2.0) 30 (2.0)
Test Duration (min) 30 30 30 30
* The ignition locations for tests A and D are based on worst-case scenario determined by ADD/PWD
testing.
** Sprinkler spacing = Distance between adjacent pipes x Distance between sprinklers on the same
pipe.
*** Test D includes a 15 in. deep x 25 ft long sheet metal obstruction located at the ceiling, its length
oriented parallel to the main array, offset 4 ft (1.2 m) from the center of the array into the aisle
adjacent to ignition.

4.47 Additional Tests

Additional tests, including full scale fire tests, may be required, depending on design features,
results of any tests, material application, or to verify the integrity and reliability of the sprinkler, at
the sole discretion of FM Approvals.
Unexplainable failures shall not be permitted. A re-test shall only be acceptable at the sole
discretion of FM Approvals and with adequate technical justification of the conditions and reasons
for failure, otherwise, a design change shall be required.

5 OPERATIONS REQUIREMENTS

A quality control program is required to assure that subsequent sprinklers produced by the manufacturer at an
authorized location shall present the same quality and reliability as the specific sprinklers examined. Design quality,
conformance to design, and performance are the areas of primary concern.
 Design quality is determined during the examination and tests, and is documented in the Approval Report.
 Continued conformance to this Standard is verified by the Surveillance Audit Program.
 Quality of performance is determined by field performances and by periodic re-examination and testing.

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5.1 Demonstrated Quality Control Program

5.1.1 The manufacturer shall demonstrate a quality assurance program which specifies controls for at
least the following areas:
 existence of corporate quality assurance guidelines;
 incoming quality assurance, including testing;
 in-process quality assurance, including testing;
 final inspection and tests;
 equipment calibration;
 drawing and change control;
 packaging and shipping; and
 handling and disposition of non-conformance materials.

5.1.2 Documentation/Manual
There shall exist an authoritative collection of procedures and policies. Such documentation shall
provide an accurate description of the quality management system while serving as a permanent
reference for implementation and maintenance of that system. The system shall require that
sufficient records are maintained to demonstrate the required quality and verify operation of the
quality system.

5.1.3 Records
To assure adequate traceability of materials and products, the manufacturer shall maintain a record
of all quality assurance tests performed, for a minimum period of two years from the date of
manufacture.

5.1.4 Drawing and Change Control

The manufacturer shall establish a system of product configuration control that shall allow no
unauthorized changes to the product. Changes to critical documents, identified in the Approval
Report, shall be reported to, and authorized by, FM Approvals prior to implementation for
production. The manufacturer shall assign an appropriate person or group to be responsible for
reporting proposed changes to FM Approved or Listed products to FM Approvals before
implementation. In situations involving significant changes to an Approved product, the
notification shall be in the form of a formal request for an Approval examination. For
modifications of a more common nature, the manufacturer shall provide notification to FM
Approvals by means of FM Approvals Form 619, FM Approved Product/Specification-Tested
Revision Request Form. Records of all revisions to all FM Approved products shall be maintained.

5.2 Surveillance Audit Program

5.2.1 An audit of the manufacturing facility is part of the Approval investigation to verify
implementation of the quality control program. Its purpose is to determine that the manufacturer's
equipment, procedures, and quality program are maintained to insure a uniform product consistent
with that which was tested and FM Approved. Initial inspections of facilities already producing
similar products may be waived at the discretion of FM Approvals.

5.2.2 Surveillance audits shall be conducted periodically, but at least annually, by FM Approvals or its
representatives, or more frequently depending on jurisdictional requirements. At issue of this
standard the Occupational and Safety Heath Administration (OSHA) of the United States
Department of Labor requires audits of manufacturing sites producing products for use in
hazardous locations during each quarter the product is manufactured.

5.2.3 The client shall manufacture the product or service only at the location(s) audited by FM
Approvals and as specified in the Approval Report. Manufacture of products bearing the FM

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Approvals Certification Mark is not permitted at any other locations without prior written
authorization by FM Approvals.

5.2.4 In the event that all or part of the quality inspection is subcontracted, the manufacturer shall
provide FM Approvals with documentation outlining the nature of the inspection, frequency, test
details, and pass/fail criteria that was provided to the subcontracted company, and documentation
that they have received and implemented these procedures.

5.3 Manufacturer's Responsibilities

The manufacturer shall notify FM Approvals of changes in product construction, design, components, raw
materials, physical characteristics, coatings, component formulation or quality assurance procedures prior to
implementation of such changes.

5.4 Manufacturing and Production Tests

For each of the following requirements, records of testing shall be maintained for a minimum of two years.

5.4.1 Test Requirement No. 1 - Hydrostatic Pressure

The manufacturer shall pressure test 100 percent of production to a hydrostatic pressure, or equivalent, of
500 psi (34.5 bar) for 2 seconds.

5.4.2 Test Requirement No. 2 - Operating Temperature

The manufacturer shall perform periodic tests for operating temperature of glass bulbs and fusible
elements.

5.4.3 Test Requirement No. 3 - Element Strength

The manufacturer shall perform periodic tests for operating element strength.

5.4.4 Test Requirement No. 4 - Glass Bulb Integrity

The manufacturer shall test 100 percent of the glass bulb sprinklers to ensure that the glass bulb has not
been damaged during assembly.

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APPENDIX A: UNITS OF MEASUREMENT

AREA: in2 - "square inches" (mm2 - "square millimeters")

mm2 = in2 x 6.4516 x 102
ft2 - "square feet" (m2 - "square meters")
m2 = ft2 x 0.09292
CONDUCTIVITY (ft/s)1/2 - "square root of feet per second"
(C-FACTOR): ([m/s]1/2 - "square root of meters per second")
(m/s)1/2 = (ft/s)1/2 x 0.552
DISCHARGE gal/min/(psi)1/2 - "gallons per minute per square root of pounds per square
COEFFICIENT inch"
(K-FACTOR):
(L/min/(bar)1/2 - "liters per minute per square root of bar")
L/min/(bar)1/2 = gal/min/(psi)1/2 x 14.414
ENERGY: BTU - "British thermal units" (J - "joules")
J = BTU x 1.0551 x 103
FLOW: gal/min - "gallon per minute" (L/min - "liters per minute")
L/min = gal/min x 3.7854
FORCE: lb - "pounds" (N - "newtons")
N = lb x 4.4482
FREQUENCY: Hz - “hertz” (also the SI unit)
HEAT RELEASE BTU/min - “British thermal units per minute” (kW - “kilowatts”)
RATE: kW = BTU/min x 0.0176
BTU/min - “British thermal units per minute” (MW - “megawatts”)
MW = BTU/min x 0.0000176
kBTU/min = BTU/min x 1000
MW = kBTU/min x 0.0176
LENGTH: in. - "inches" (mm - "millimeters")
mm = in. x 25.4
ft - "feet" (m - "meters")
m = ft x 0.3048
LIQUID VOLUME: gal – "gallons" (L - "liters")
L = gal x 3.7854
oz. – “ounces” (ml – “milliliters”)
ml = oz. x 29.6
MASS: lb - "pounds" (kg - "kilograms")
kg = lb x 0.454

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PRESSURE: psi - "pounds per square inch" (bar - “bar”)

bar = psi x 0.06895
psi -“pounds per square inch” (kPa - “kilopascals”)
kPa = psi x 6.895
bar - “bar” (kPa - “kilopascals”)
kPa = bar x 100
psi - "pounds per square inch" (inHg - "inches of mercury")
inHg = psi x 2.0358
bar - “bar” (inHg - "inches of mercury")
inHg = bar x 29.53
RESPONSE TIME (ft·s)1/2 - "square root of foot seconds" [(m·s)1/2 - "square root of meter
INDEX (RTI): seconds"]
(m·s)1/2 = (ft·s)1/2 x 0.552
TEMPERATURE: °F - "degrees Fahrenheit" (°C - "degrees Celsius")
°C = (°F – 32) x 0.556
TORQUE lb·ft - "pound-feet" (N·m - "newton-meters")
(MOMENT): N·m = lb·ft x 1.356
VOLUME PER UNIT gal/min/ft2 - "gallons per minute per square feet" (mm/min - "millimeters per
AREA: minute")
mm/min = 40.75 x gal/min/ft2

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APPENDIX B: TOLERANCES

Unless otherwise stated, the following tolerances shall apply:

Angle: ± 2°
Frequency (Hz): ± 5 percent of value
Length: ± 2 percent of value
Volume: ± 5 percent of value
Rotation: ± 1 RPM
Pressure: ± 3percent of value
Temperature: ± 5 percent of value
Time: + 5/-0 seconds

+ 0.1/-0 minutes

+ 0.1/-0 hours

+ 0.25/-0 days

Unless stated otherwise, all tests should be carried out at a room (ambient) temperature of 68 ±
12°F (20 ± 6.7°C).

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APPENDIX C: TOLERANCE LIMIT CALCULATIONS

Utilizing the data obtained as described in Sections 4.2.2 and 4.3.2B, the mean and standard deviation for the
assembly load and the bulb strength shall be calculated using the following equation:

 
1/ 2
 n x x 2
 n1
 i
  i1 
 n 1 
Where:
 
σn-1 = standard deviation
x = sample mean
xi = individual values of each sample tested
n = number of samples tested

Based upon the number of sprinklers or bulbs tested (n), a value, γ, shall be selected from Table D1 where the
degree of confidence is 0.99 and the proportion of samples is 0.99.

Table D1. γ Factors for One-Sided Tolerance Limits For Normal Distributions
(99 Percent of Samples)
n γ n γ n γ
10 5.075 17 4.038 24 3.638
11 4.828 18 3.961 25 3.601
12 4.633 19 3.893 30 3.446
13 4.472 20 3.832 35 3.334
14 4.336 21 3.776 40 3.250
15 4.224 22 3.727 45 3.181
16 4.124 23 3.680 50 3.124

Tolerance limits shall then be calculated as follows:

LTL = x̄ B – γBσ(n-1)B
UTL = x̄ S + γSσ(n-1)S

Where:
LTL = lower tolerance limits for bulb strength
UTL = upper tolerance limit for sprinkler assembly load
x̄ B = mean bulb strength
γB = bulb strength factor (γ) from Table D1
σ(n-1)B = sample unbiased standard deviation for the bulb
x̄ S = mean assembly load
σ(n-1)S = sample unbiased standard deviation for the assembly load
γS = assembly load factor (γ) from Table D1

Compliance with the requirement shall be confirmed if LTL > 2 x UTL.

Outliers may be discarded from the sample base utilizing appropriate statistical techniques at the discretion of FM
Approvals.

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APPENDIX D: FIGURES

D-1: Impingement (Angle of Protection) – In-Rack Sprinkler

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D-2: RTI and C-Factor Limits for Best Case Orientation

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For Designs with Line Contact:

Edge To Have Contour Ø0.392 +0.000
-0.002 in.
Identical To Actual Mating
Component Or Sharp Edge (Ø9.96 +0.000
-0.051 mm)
(Burr Free R.005 in. Max.) (Typ)

0.588 ± 0.010 in.

(15 ± 0.25 mm)

0.02 in. x 45°

Chamfer (Typ) Inside Diameter
Identical to Actual
Mating Component

Or: For Designs with Surface Contact:

Ø0.392 +0.000
-0.002 in.
Burr Free (Ø9.96 +0.000
-0.051 mm)
R.005 in. Max
(Typ)

0.588 ± 0.010 in.

(15 ± 0.25 mm)

0.02 in. x 45°

Chamfer (Typ) Surface To Have
Contour Identical
REQUIRED: To Actual Mating
* Material - Hardened Steel, Rockwell C38-50 Component (Typ)
* Marking - Manufacturer, Bulb Size, Seat Diameter

D-3: Bulb Crush Inserts for Strength of Element Test

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D-4: Pneumatic Leakage - Dry Sprinkler Inlet Test (Dry Sprinklers Only)

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D-5: Operating Temperature (Liquid Bath) Typical Test Setup

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D-6: Test Apparatus for Hang-up of Operating Parts Test

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D-7: Test Apparatus for Measuring Nominal Discharge Coefficient (K-Factor)

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D-8: Rough use and Abuse (Drop Impact) Test Apparatus

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9.84 in.
(250 mm)
4.94 in.
(125 mm)

Ø1.630 in.
(4) Ø0.180 in. (41 mm)
11.82 in. (4.6 mm) Holes
(300 mm) Ø2.312 in.
(59 mm) B.C.

5.91 in.
(150 mm)

5.91 in.
(150 mm)
11.82 in.
(300 mm)
3/8 in. NPT for Air
R 0.25 Typ Hose Connection
1.12 in. O-Ring
(28 mm)

1 in. (25 mm) [0.63 in.

(16 mm) for 1 in. NPT] 1/16 in.

1, 3/4 or 1/2 NPT Sprinkler

Mounting Connection

D-9: Plunge Tunnel Test Plate (For Sensitivity - RTI Test)

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D-10: Modified Plunge Tunnel Test Plate (For Sensitivity Test - Recessed, Flush and Concealed Sprinklers)

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D-11: Standard Coverage Sprinkler Distribution - Upright and Pendent Sprinkler Plan Configuration

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D-12: Standard Coverage Sprinkler Distribution - Piping Configuration for Upright Sprinklers

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D-13: Standard Coverage Sprinkler Distribution - Piping Configuration for Pendent Sprinklers

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D-14: Standard Coverage Sprinkler Distribution - Adjustable Drop Detail for Pendent Sprinklers

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D-15: Standard Coverage Sprinkler Distribution – Test Setup for Sidewall Sprinklers

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D-16: Standard Coverage Sprinkler Distribution – Test Setup for Sidewall Sprinklers (Detail)

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D-17: Distribution Test Setup for Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1 (HC-1) Sprinklers

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D-18: K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler Location for Distribution

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6 in. 19.6 in.

(150 mm) (500 mm)

8 16 24 32
19.6 in.
(500 mm)

36
7 15 23 31

41 42
Water 6 14 Air 22 30
Cooling 4 ft deflector
plate 4 in. 6 in.
Jacket (1.2 m) dia. (150 mm)
35 (100 mm)
diameter
5 13 21 29

Fuel
Fuel Inlet 40 39
Inlet
4 12 20 28

175 in.
11 (4450 mm)
3 19 27
Air Supply
34 Nozzle
Opening 8 in.
(205 mm)
dia.
38 37
2 10 18 26

33
1 9 17 25

Prewetting
Density Area
85 in.
(2150 mm)

D-19: Actual Delivered Density (ADD) Apparatus – Plan View

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D-20: Actual Delivered Density (ADD) Apparatus – Elevation View

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D-21: Crib Fire Test - Design of Standard Crib

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D-22: Crib Fire Test - Sprinkler Position with Respect to Crib

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D-23: Crib Fire Test - Arrangement with Piping

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D-24: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K11.2 (K160) and K14.0 (K200) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers, Test
A

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D-25: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K11.2 (K160) and K14.0 (K200) Upright and Pendent Storage, Test B

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D-26: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K14.0 (K200) Upright and Pendent Storage Sprinklers, Test C

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D-27: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K14.0 (K200) Extended Coverage Hazard Category 1–3 Sprinkler

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D-28: Sprinkler System Layout - K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler

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D-29: Sprinkler Installation Position K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler

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D-30: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall Sprinkler

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D-31: Array Positions for Screening Tests of K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal Sidewall
Sprinkler

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D-32: Obstruction Configuration and Array Position for K14.0 (K200) Non-Storage Extended Coverage Horizontal
Sidewall Sprinkler

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D-33: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K16.8 (K240) Upright Storage Sprinkler, Test A

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D-34: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K16.8 (K240) Upright Storage Sprinkler, Test B

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D-35: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K19.6 (K280) Pendent Sprinkler, Test A and B

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D-36: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K19.6 (K280) Pendent Sprinkler, Test C

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D-37: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K19.6 (K280) Pendent Sprinkler, Test D and E

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D-38: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K19.6 (K280) Pendent Sprinkler, Test F

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D-39: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K25.2 (K360) Upright and Pendent Sprinklers, Test A

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D-40: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K25.2 (K360) Upright and Pendent Sprinklers, Test B and C

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D-41: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K25.2 EC (K360EC) Upright and Pendent Sprinklers, Test A

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D-42: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K25.2 EC (K360EC) Upright and Pendent Sprinklers, Test B and C

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D-43: Full Scale Fire Test Array for K25.2 EC (K360EC) Upright and Pendent Sprinklers, Test D

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APPENDIX E: SAMPLE LISTING

K5.6 Upright (Class 2016)

Company Model K Type Response Element NPT Finishes Temp Ratings °F (°C)
(in.)
ABC ABC2 5.6 Upright SR 5 mm 1/2 Brass, Chrome, 135°, 155°, 175°, 200°, 286°F
Polyester (57°, 68°, 79°, 93°, 141°C)
PQR PQR56 5.6 Upright SR 5 mm 1/2 Brass, Chrome 135°, 155°, 175°, 200°, 286°,
360°F
(57°, 68°, 79°, 93°, 141°,
182°C)
WXY P 5.6 Upright SR 5 mm 1/2 Brass, Chrome, 135°, 155°, 175°, 200°, 286°,
Polyester, 360°F
Bright Brass (57°, 68°, 79°, 93°, 141°,
182°C)
XYZ XZ445 5.6 Upright SR 5 mm 1/2 Wax, Lead, 135°, 155°, 175°, 200°F
6 Wax Over (57°, 68°, 79°, 93°C)
Lead

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